Statement Analysis & Verbal Behavior Flashcards

In SCAN (Scientific Content Analysis), what does an examiner look for regarding the opening of a subject's written account?

Answer: Whether the narrative begins before the alleged incident

SCAN practitioners examine whether the prologue begins prior to the alleged incident, as truthful subjects typically provide contextual background before describing the critical event.

In statement analysis, using hedging phrases such as 'I think,' 'I believe,' or 'I'm not sure' when describing events the subject directly experienced is referred to as:

Answer: Lack of conviction

Lack of conviction is evidenced by qualifying language that reduces certainty in areas where a subject with direct knowledge should be able to speak definitively.

Which foundational principle underlies Criterion-Based Content Analysis (CBCA)?

Answer: Truthful accounts tend to score higher on credibility criteria than fabricated ones

CBCA is based on the hypothesis that genuine experienced events differ in content from fabricated or coached accounts, with truthful statements tending to contain more criteria-based content.

In forensic statement analysis, spontaneous self-corrections made by a subject without prompting are generally considered:

Answer: A positive credibility indicator suggesting genuine recall

Spontaneous corrections are considered a CBCA positive credibility indicator because fabricators tend to rehearse a consistent story rather than naturally self-correct.

What does 'temporal lacunae' refer to in statement analysis?

Answer: A gap or missing time period in a subject's account

Temporal lacunae are gaps or missing time periods in a subject's narrative that may signal areas of omission or deception requiring further investigative attention.

Which of the following best exemplifies a 'reliable denial' according to forensic statement analysis principles?

Answer: 'I did not steal the funds from the account on Friday.'

A reliable denial uses the first person, past tense, and specifically addresses the alleged act without deflection, oaths, or generalizations.

In statement analysis, 'distancing language' refers to:

Answer: Passive constructions or dropped pronouns that psychologically separate a subject from an act

Distancing language involves passive voice, omitted pronouns, or impersonal constructions that create psychological separation between a subject and their actions, which may indicate deception or guilt.