Expert at university will discuss witness memory at public lecture

In this inaugural lecture, Lorraine Hope, Professor of Applied Cognitive Psychology at the University of Portsmouth, will discuss her programme of research.

It examined the effects of challenging environments on memory and the reliability of accounts provided by individuals in those particular settings.

She will also focus on her work developing new tools and techniques for eliciting reliable information in forensic contexts.

Professor Hope said: ‘Witness memory is a compelling, if somewhat fragile, source of information, intelligence and evidence.

‘Successful investigations often hinge on accurate and detailed memory accounts provided by lay victims and witnesses and operational responders, such as police officers, military and emergency personnel.

‘However, witnessed events can be dynamic, stressful and challenging and such factors often impair recall.

‘Similarly, poor interviewing or interrogation techniques can result in memory distortion and error.’

Professor Hope’s research interests concern the performance of human cognition in applied contexts, including memory and decision-making under challenging conditions.

The lecture takes place at Portland Building on Wednesday from 6pm until 7pm.

The event is free, but please reserve a place at eventbrite.co.uk.