A Study of the Criminal Investigative Process
Thank you for showing an interest in completing this online task. You are invited to participate in a research study, conducted as part of a dissertation for the BSc Psychology programme at the University of Surrey.
What is the purpose of the study?
This study aims to identify how people examine criminal situations. Should you choose to participate, you will be given a more detailed description of the study variables and aims upon completion of the task.
What is the eligibility criteria?
You must be 18 years of age, or older to participate in this study. Participants of various ages and occupations are invited to complete this task.
What will I have to do?
You will be presented with a case scenario and will be asked to indicate how you would proceed through a particular stage in an investigation. The scenario used within this experiment has been taken from a 'real life' crime, however the names, places and dates have been changed.
How long will the study take?
The task will take approximately 30 minutes, although response time may be variable for different participants. You will not need to write notes while completing the task. You will not be able to pause, or save your progress. The activity must be completed in one sitting.
Can I withdraw from the study?
Your participation is entirely voluntary. If you do decide to take part, you will need to answer all questions in order to complete the survey. However, you can choose to withdraw at any time by stopping and exiting the questionnaire, your answers will not be retained until you have completed the task.
Are there risks involved in taking part?
It is not anticipated that you will suffer any stress or adverse effects from this study. The content of the case scenario is not designed to cause distress.
If I choose to participate, what happens to the responses I give?
All answers given will be anonymous. Data will be stored securely in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998. This study has received a favourable opinion from the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences Ethics Committee, University of Surrey, reference: FT-PSY-224-15.
Are there any further, particular instructions?
Please answer each question carefully and truthfully. It is recommended that you minimise the possibility of any distractions. Please note that all information you require to provide answers will be found within the task.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact myself or my supervisor:
Wayne Collins: wc00068@surrey.ac.uk
Dr Patrice Rusconi: p.rusconi@surrey.ac.uk
Thank you for taking the time to read this introduction.