Abstract
Abstract Custodial police interrogations are high-stakes social interactions that can result in serious legal consequences for adolescent suspects. Psychological research on youths’ immature judgment and susceptibility to influence reveals specific developmental vulnerabilities in the interrogation room. This chapter reviews scientific evidence regarding adolescents’ Miranda rights comprehension, interrogative suggestibility, and propensity to comply with authority figures. It discusses case law and policy governing interrogation practices and the legal implications of adolescents’ Miranda waivers and confessions. The chapter highlights the experiences of youth suspects of color as an especially disadvantaged group. It integrates contemporary law and developmental research around three key issues—Miranda, parent involvement in interrogations, and police use of coercion—to explore the interplay between developmental science and the law in juvenile interrogations. Finally, the chapter discusses the importance of legislative and policing reforms, including mandatory recording of all custodial interrogations, mandatory assistance of legal counsel, and prohibition of deception with adolescent suspects.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
