Which term refers to the method of visually identifying suspects by comparing photographs?

Which term refers to the method of visually identifying suspects by comparing photographs?

• A. Lighting Conditions
• B. Witness Interview
• C. Perceptual Narrowing
• D. Photo Lineups

Answer: (D)

The method being tested is photo lineups, where a witness is shown a structured set of photographs to determine which image, if any, matches the person they saw. This approach standardizes the identification process and helps reduce bias by including filler photos that resemble the suspect and by keeping the presentation consistent. Environmental factors like lighting conditions affect how well a witness can see and recognize features, but they are not the method of identification themselves. A witness interview is about eliciting details and descriptions from the witness, not presenting a lineup for identification. Perceptual narrowing describes how stress can limit what a witness notices or recalls, which can influence accuracy, but it does not define the identification method used.

The method being tested is photo lineups, where a witness is shown a structured set of photographs to determine which image, if any, matches the person they saw. This approach standardizes the identification process and helps reduce bias by including filler photos that resemble the suspect and by keeping the presentation consistent.

Environmental factors like lighting conditions affect how well a witness can see and recognize features, but they are not the method of identification themselves. A witness interview is about eliciting details and descriptions from the witness, not presenting a lineup for identification. Perceptual narrowing describes how stress can limit what a witness notices or recalls, which can influence accuracy, but it does not define the identification method used.