Eyewitness Testimony
Eyewitness testimony refers to the account given by individuals who have witnessed an event, often used in legal settings to provide evidence about what they saw or heard. This type of testimony can be crucial in criminal cases, as it may help identify suspects or clarify the sequence of events. However, the reliability of eyewitness accounts can vary significantly due to factors like stress, lighting, and the passage of time.
Research has shown that human memory is not always accurate, and people may unintentionally distort their recollections. Factors such as leading questions or the presence of media coverage can further influence how witnesses remember details. As a result, while eyewitness testimony can be valuable, it is essential to consider its limitations in the pursuit of justice.