Citation

Parker AD, Brown J. Leg. Crim. Psychol. 2000; 5(2): 237-259.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, British Psychological Society, Publisher John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1348/135532500168119

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Objectives. This study explores the use of Statement Validity Analysis (SVA) in the assessment of the veracity of adult rape allegations. Hypotheses relate to 'reality criteria' (CBCA)'s ability to capture the nature and complexity of the rape victim's narrative and whether the 'validity criteria' (Validity Checklist) is sufficiently sensitive to detect the psychological characteristics found in rape allegations. A comparison is made between the capability of SVA and the ability of detectives to distinguish true from false allegations to test practical application of the procedure. Method. The material for the study consisted of 43 interview statements, gathered by means of the cognitive interview (CI). Multivariate statistical analyses examined the success of CBCA and the Validity Checklist to distinguish true from false allegations. Validity of the allegations' veracity were assessed against forensic corroboration, guilty pleas and withdrawal of complaints. Application of SVA was subjected to inter-rater agreement of criteria selection. Results. CBCA did differentiate genuine from false statements and the Validity Checklist added practical investigative value to the analysis by correctly identifying all true and false cases. The combined procedures fared less well in determining the veracity of unsubstantiated cases, the reasons for which are discussed. Further weaknesses, in relation to the suitability of current police interview procedures for use with SVA, were revealed. The SVA predictions about the veracity of statements were more accurate than those made by police officers. Conclusions. SVA was found applicable to adult witness statements, although there were certain age relevant differences in the reliability and validity of criteria. Consistent with previous research on false allegations of rape, a wider range of sexual acts was found in genuine reports and certain characteristics were common to false reports. Contrary to previous findings, no differentiation could be made on the basis of degree or nature of injury sustained. Some refinements to the theoretical underpinnings of SVA are made and directions for future research are suggested to make the technique suitable for police use and more acceptable to the courts.

Language: en