Using metacognition to understand memory performance in children

Abstract

Children are often perceived as unreliable witnesses which could affect the treatment of this vulnerable group within the criminal justice system. Metacognition is a complex and higher-order skill which is used to help us reflect on whether our memory for a past event is correct or not. In this review, we consider theoretical and empirical evidence on the development of this skill and its application for improving child interview procedures.Author note:This work was supported by an ESRC grant (1001128) to M.C.