Castellow et al

Reaching a Verdict – How Psychology Can Inform Behaviour in the Courtroom

Witness Appeal

2.1 Attractiveness of the Defendant

·         ‘Halo Effect’ – when one favourable characteristic in known about an individual a positive halo is of favourable characteristics is formed.

·         When applied to the courtroom, a jury may make decisions about witnesses and defendants based on their physical appearance.

Key Study: Castellow et al, The Effects of Physical Attractiveness on Jury Verdicts

Aim:-

·        To test the hypothesis that attractive defendants are less likely to be seen as guilty.

Methodology:-

·        Laboratory experiment…