Dual-task interference and its influence on deception detection and memory

Using a dual-task paradigm, I examined how engaging in executive function tasks impacted deception detection and memory performance. University students (N = 185) were randomly assigned to detect deception while also performing a concurrent monitoring, memory, planning, motor, or visual task, or no additional task (single-task control). Compared to those in the single-task control condition, participants in the memory and planning conditions were significantly less likely to be accurate when detecting deception. Those in the memory condition self-reported experiencing higher ratings of cognitive load and exhibited poorer recognition. Differences in decision-making processes could not account for these effects. The results suggest performance deficits in deception detection can be attributable to isolated cognitive demands; even simply adding a secondary task can be impactful. Investigative interviewers may be particularly disadvantaged when under different types of cognitive load while detecting deception.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science (MSc)

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Forensic Psychology

Grantor

University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2023

Author dc:creator

• Blake, Chelsea K.

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Leach, Amy-May

• Deception detection
• Dual-task interference
• Cognitive load
• Memory

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10155/1671

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:ontariotechu.scholaris.ca:10155/1671