Psychological pitfalls in the search for evidence

Abstract

It must be prefaced that very often, in spite of a laborious investigation, full truth is unattainable however, a police officer must ensure that every possible source of detection be utilised in his pursuit for evidence and must be fully aware of the basic psychological aspects that play a decisive role in his quest. If he disregards them he will be led astray and prevented from reaching a clear understanding of the situation he is investigating and from grasping the facts of the case or, at least, coming to a very close approximation of the factors involved. The aim of this study is to draw attention to the mental mechanisms that are operative in the gathering of evidence; to the pitfalls that may be met with and how to surmount them; and to the steps to be followed to avoid possible errors in interpreting the facts.