Every Contact Leaves a Trace: A Critical Analysis of the Influences that Affect How Professionals in a Criminal Investigation Environment Understand

By Anthony Laird

Master's Thesis from the year 2016 in the subject Law - Criminal process, Criminology, Law Enforcement, grade: Pass, Credits, University of Portsmouth (Institute of Criminal Justice Studies), course: MSc Criminology and Criminal Psychology, language: English, abstract: Initially this research took the form of a literature review of relevant psychological and sociological theories in an attempt to discover how/if these affect forensic examiners in the course of their duties. It was discovered that psychological and sociological influences do indeed impose powerful, yet subtle, effects on examiners, and are likely to impact not only on the understanding examiners have of their function in a forensic environment, but also on their decision-making abilities. The literature review was followed by a review and analysis of professional bodies related to forensic examination. It was found that although their message is generally well intended, the language being used is at times less than impartial. This may prove problematic as there is evidence to suggest that inappropriate use of language and terminology can affect perception. Primary data was obtained by way of an online survey. This highlighted several points that could be considered to be of concern. Among these were an apparent lack of standardisation in working practices, and the degree to which some examiners are prepared to expose themselves to biasing influences.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 3668799067
• ISBN13: 9783668799066
• Release Date: November 2018
• Publisher: Grin Verlag
• Length: 94 Pages
• Weight: 0.29 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 5.8" x 8.3"