Emotional Experiences and Motivating Factors Associated with Fingerprint Analysis
David Charlton Ug. Dip.
Centre for Forensic Sciences, School of Conservation Sciences, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, UK.
Cognitive Consultants International (CCI). http://www.cognitiveconsultantsinternational.com
Search for more papers by this authorPeter A.F. Fraser-Mackenzie M.Sc. (Hons.)
Cognitive Consultants International (CCI). http://www.cognitiveconsultantsinternational.com
School of Management, Southampton University, Southampton, UK.
Search for more papers by this authorItiel E. Dror Ph.D.
Cognitive Consultants International (CCI). http://www.cognitiveconsultantsinternational.com
Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London (UCL), London, UK.
Search for more papers by this authorDavid Charlton Ug. Dip.
Centre for Forensic Sciences, School of Conservation Sciences, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, UK.
Cognitive Consultants International (CCI). http://www.cognitiveconsultantsinternational.com
Search for more papers by this authorPeter A.F. Fraser-Mackenzie M.Sc. (Hons.)
Cognitive Consultants International (CCI). http://www.cognitiveconsultantsinternational.com
School of Management, Southampton University, Southampton, UK.
Search for more papers by this authorItiel E. Dror Ph.D.
Cognitive Consultants International (CCI). http://www.cognitiveconsultantsinternational.com
Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London (UCL), London, UK.
Search for more papers by this authorAbstract
Abstract: In this study, we investigated the emotional and motivational factors involved in fingerprint analysis in day-to-day routine case work and in significant and harrowing criminal investigations. Thematic analysis was performed on interviews with 13 experienced fingerprint examiners from a variety of law enforcement agencies. The data revealed factors relating to job satisfaction and the use of skill. Individual satisfaction related to catching criminals was observed; this was most notable in solving high profile, serious, or long-running cases. There were positive emotional effects associated with matching fingerprints and apparent fear of making errors. Finally, we found evidence for a need of cognitive closure in fingerprint examiner decision-making.
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