Understanding The Offender: Behavioral Evidence Analysis In Forensic Interrogation – Methodologies, Emerging Trends And Applications

Madhuri Vagal

doi:10.69980/ajpr.v28i5.376

Authors

Madhuri Vagal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.69980/ajpr.v28i5.376

Keywords:

Behavioral Evidence Analysis, Forensic Interrogation Techniques, Offender Behavioral Profiling, Deception Detection Strategies, Cognitive Neuroscience in Interrogation

Abstract

Understanding criminal behavior is a cornerstone of forensic investigations, and Behavioral Evidence Analysis (BEA) has emerged as a crucial tool in forensic interrogation. By combining insights from psychology, criminology, and investigative science, BEA helps law enforcement professionals assess deception, analyze cognitive patterns, and identify behavioral inconsistencies in suspects. This paper delves into the methodologies that shape BEA, highlighting its evolution from traditional interrogation techniques to modern, data-driven approaches. With advancements in artificial intelligence, neuropsychology, and biometric analysis, forensic interrogation has become more precise and evidence-based. However, while these technologies offer promising results, ethical concerns surrounding coercion, psychological manipulation, and legal admissibility remain at the forefront. This study explores the impact of BEA across various domains, including criminal investigations, counterterrorism, corporate fraud, and cybercrime. We assess BEA’s effectiveness in differentiating between truthfulness and deception by analyzing real-world case studies and recent research. Finally, we examine future directions, particularly the integration of AI-driven behavioral analysis and neuroscience, which may redefine the landscape of forensic interrogation.

Author Biography

Madhuri Vagal

PhD Research Scholar (Clinical Psychology); PG Diploma in (Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation); Specialization PG Diploma in (Forensic Medicine and Toxicology); Specialization In (Forensic Psychology); CEO & Founder of (Legal Investigation Forensic Science Laboratory in Mumbai)

References

 Books and Book Chapters:

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 Journals & Articles:

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15. Perillo, J. T., & Kassin, S. M. (2011). Inside Interrogation: The Lie, the Bluff, and False Confessions. Law and Human Behavior, 35(4), 327-337. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10979-010-9244-2

16. Kassin, S. M., Dror, I. E., & Kukucka, J. (2013). The Forensic Confirmation Bias: Problems, Perspectives, and Proposed Solutions. Journal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition, 2(1), 42-52. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jarmac.2013.01.001

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18. Appleby, S. C., & Kassin, S. M. (2016). When Self-Report Trumps Science: Effects of Confessions, DNA, and Prosecutorial Theories on Perceptions of Guilt. Psychology, Public Policy, and Law, 22(2), 127-140. https://doi.org/10.1037/law0000080

19. Kassin, S. M., Redlich, A. D., Alceste, F., & Luke, T. J. (2018). On the General Acceptance of Confessions Research: Opinions of the Scientific Community. American Psychologist, 73(1), 63-80. https://doi.org/10.1037/amp0000141

 Websites:

20. Brain Electrical Oscillation Signature Profiling (BEOSP)

Wikipedia.

An overview of BEOSP, a technique used to detect a suspect's participation in a crime by analyzing electrophysiological impulses.https://www.wikipedia.org/

21. Saul Kassin Case Report

Wikipedia. Certainly, here are some reputable websites that provide valuable information on Behavioral Evidence Analysis and forensic interrogation:

1. Brain Electrical Oscillation Signature Profiling (BEOSP) – Wikipedia An overview of BEOSP, a technique used to detect a suspect's participation in a crime by analyzing electrophysiological impulses.

2. Saul Kassin – Wikipedia A comprehensive profile of Dr. Saul Kassin, a prominent psychologist known for his research on false confessions and interrogation techniques.

3. Dr. Ann Burgess: The Forensic Nurse Who Inspired 'Mindhunter' FBI Technique - The Sun

An article detailing the contributions of Dr. Ann Burgess to criminal profiling and her collaboration with the FBI's Behavioral Science Unit.

4. 'It was me, sir': Expert Unpacks Bloodied Killer's Confession - The AdvertiserAn analysis by forensic psychologist Tim Watson-Munro on videotaped confessions and the behavior of offenders during police interviews.

5. My Last Trial - The AtlanticAmanda Knox reflects on her legal ordeal, highlighting issues related to false confessions and interrogation practices.

These sources offer diverse perspectives on forensic interrogation techniques, case studies, and expert analyses related to Behavioral Evidence Analysis.

A comprehensive profile of Dr. Saul Kassin, a prominent psychologist known for his research on false confessions and interrogation techniques.https://www.wikipedia.org

22. Dr. Ann Burgess: The Forensic Nurse Who Inspired 'Mindhunter' FBI Technique

The Sun.

An article detailing the contributions of Dr. Ann Burgess to criminal profiling and her collaboration with the FBI's Behavioral Science Unit.https://www.thesun.co.uk/

23. 'It was me, sir': Expert Unpacks Bloodied Killer's Confession

The Advertiser.

An analysis by forensic psychologist Tim Watson-Munro on videotaped confessions and the behavior of offenders during police interviews.https://www.adelaidenow.com.au/

24. My Last Trial The Atlantic.

Amanda Knox reflects on her legal ordeal, highlighting issues related to false confessions and interrogation practices.https://www.theatlantic.com/