Tell me again about the face: Using repeated interviewing techniques to improve feature-based facial composite technologies.

Abstract

Facial composite technologies are used to produce visual resemblances of an offender. However, resemblances may be poor, particularly when composites are constructed using traditional `feature' composite systems deployed several days after the crime. In this case a witness may have forgotten important details about an offender's appearance. Engaging in early and repeated retrieval attempts could potentially overcome this issue. Experiment 1 showed that more recognisable feature composites were produced after participants had provided detailed face recall during two supported retrieval attempts, which included instructions to reinstate the context in which the target had been seen, free recall and cued recall. The first recall attempt was completed on the same day as viewing the target individual, and the second two days later, and immediately before composite construction (traditional forensic procedure). Experiment 2 showed that repeated interviewing only incurred a benefit when the same day interview provided ample retrieval support. The results suggest how traditional forensic procedures can be easily modified to improve the quality of feature composites, and thereby facilitate the detection of offenders.