Relative Judgement
Definition
The cognitive strategy of comparing lineup members to each other and selecting the best match to memory. Encouraged by the simultaneous format and dangerous when the perpetrator is absent.
- Field
- Eyewitness identification
- Linked format
- Simultaneous lineup
- Risk
- False ID when culprit absent
- Contrasting strategy
- Absolute judgement
Common questions
Why does the simultaneous lineup format encourage relative judgement?+
Presenting all members at once invites side-by-side comparison, so a witness can pick the best match in the lineup even when the true culprit is not present at all.
How does sequential presentation reduce reliance on relative judgement?+
Viewing one member at a time removes the option to compare across the full set, pushing witnesses toward comparing each face only to their memory of the culprit.
Related terms
- BNSS 2023 § 54
- The Indian statutory provision governing identification parades, replacing CrPC § 9. Requires the parade to be held before a magistrate with persons...
- Double-Blind Administration
- Lineup administration by an officer who does not know which member is the suspect. Removes the possibility of administrator cue effects. The...
- Functional Size
- The number of lineup members who are plausible perpetrators given the witness's prior description. A lineup with nominal size six but functional...
- Must-Be-There Bias
- The tendency of witnesses to make a lineup identification even when uncertain, if they believe the perpetrator is present. Substantially reduced by...
- Sequential Lineup
- A lineup in which members are presented one at a time, with the witness making a yes/no decision on each before seeing...
- Simultaneous Lineup
- A lineup in which the witness views all persons or photographs at the same time and selects one. Encourages relative judgement (who...
- VIPER System
- Video Identification Parade Electronic Recording, the default identification procedure in England and Wales since 2003. Uses standardised database clips administered by an...