I’ll Confess to Be Included: Social Exclusion Predicts Likelihood of False Confession

Abstract

Recent research has examined predictors of false confessions in criminal investigations. By incorporating a commonly utilized social rejection paradigm (Cyberball), the current study adds to the list of personality and situational predictors by examining the role of social exclusion—which is a likely by-product of long-lasting interrogation sessions—on the likelihood of false confessions. Results confirm the hypothesis that individuals experiencing social exclusion are more likely to confess than individuals who are not socially excluded. These results suggest that situational variables in interrogations (specifically ostracism and exclusion) that emphasize important personality considerations (such as the need to belong) are important for police organizations to consider reducing the likelihood of false confessions.