Justice at risk! An evaluation of a pseudoscientific analysis of a witness’ nonverbal behavior in the courtroom

Vincent Denault, Louise Marie Jupe

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    Abstract

    Psychology and law have developed as disciplines through rigorous data collection, exploration and analysis, and the publication of findings through peer-review processes. Such findings are then used to implement evidence-based practices within a variety of settings. However, in parallel to factually and scientifically based knowledge, ‘alternative’ science, or pseudoscience, has gained in popularity. The present case study aims to evaluate the empirical evidence and theoretical underpinnings of a publically accessible analysis of a suspected serial killer’s nonverbal behavior during a bond hearing published online by two ‘synergologists’. The case study emphasizes how a ‘synergological’ analysis to understanding and interpreting human behavior fails to use empirical data, making generalized inferences based on erroneous assumptions. The case study also highlights the detrimental effects such assumptions may have within the justice system and why pseudoscientific analytical approaches should be vigorously challenged by research scientists.
    Original languageEnglish
    Number of pages23
    JournalJournal of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychology
    Early online date27 Jul 2017
    DOIs
    Publication statusEarly online - 27 Jul 2017

    Keywords

    • synergology
    • behavioral analysis
    • pseudoscience
    • nonverbal communication

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