Which factor is cited as a reason why innocent suspects may confess?

Which factor is cited as a reason why innocent suspects may confess?

• A. To protect someone else
• B. To escape the pressures of a harsh interrogation
• C. To expedite release
• D. To avoid trial altogether

Answer: (B)

Coercive interrogation pressure can drive an innocent person to confess as a way to escape the immediate stress and fear of questioning. When interrogations are prolonged, isolating, and accusatory, suspects may feel overwhelmed and believe that admitting guilt will end the pressure, even if they did not commit the crime. This urge for relief from the harsh environment is a well-documented driver of false confessions, as individuals mistake temporary relief from stress for a resolution of the situation. While motives like wanting to protect someone else, expediting release, or avoiding trial can appear in some cases, they do not consistently explain why innocent people confess. The strongest explanation, supported by research, is the attempt to escape the pressures of a harsh interrogation.

Coercive interrogation pressure can drive an innocent person to confess as a way to escape the immediate stress and fear of questioning. When interrogations are prolonged, isolating, and accusatory, suspects may feel overwhelmed and believe that admitting guilt will end the pressure, even if they did not commit the crime. This urge for relief from the harsh environment is a well-documented driver of false confessions, as individuals mistake temporary relief from stress for a resolution of the situation. While motives like wanting to protect someone else, expediting release, or avoiding trial can appear in some cases, they do not consistently explain why innocent people confess. The strongest explanation, supported by research, is the attempt to escape the pressures of a harsh interrogation.