Hypnosis, memory, and behaviour in the forensic setting

CRG Report Number
16-86

Criminology Research Council grant ; (16/86)

In the book published from this research (Hypnosis, Memory and Behaviour in Criminal Investigation, 1995, Guilford Press, New York) the authors focus on the issues that arise when one is trying to conduct or to evaluate an attempt to enhance memory with hypnosis, and when hypnosis is used in an attempt to commit an act that is criminal. The study aims to present, evaluate, and offer guidance on matters that experts have to consider in these areas, and to balance priorities when experts are seeking to act effectively and ethically in their interactions with the forensic system as a whole.

The themes and issues that the authors take up stem from two main sources: their own research with a variety of forensic cases, and their view that the literature to date has under emphasised the complexity of the issues and their importance in practice. The study emphasises the need for effective procedures and ethical actions when hypnosis is used in the forensic setting.