M Kimberly MacLin | Search PubMed

PubMed2005

Coding observational data: a software solution.

The analysis of observational data, particularly from social interactions, is often made difficult by the process of transcribing the verbal and behavioral interactions, having observers code on the transcriptions, and then transferring those codes to a statistical analysis program. The advent of computer-aided coding schemes has, to some extent, eliminated this laborious and time-consuming process. However, existing programs may not fulfill the needs of all of the researchers interested in this methodology, and furthermore, the expense of current systems may put these tools out of reach for some. The Observational Data Coding System (ODCS) software package presented here is a flexible coding tool designed to make efficient the process of coding observational data. A control panel allows the researcher to customize the program and coding system to suit his or her research questions. A variety of media (including video, audio, image, and text) can be read directly into the Windows-based program; trained observers can then code a variety of factors via buttons on the screen while the file is playing. An example of using the program to analyze conversation is provided. ODCS is a flexible, free tool for the coding of observational data.

Adult↗

PubMed2004

The alias advantage and perceptions of guilt.

The present study is an examination of the perception of guilt based on the number of aliases used by a defendant. Participants in Experiment 1 (N = 275) reviewed materials summarizing an actual crime in which the defendant was identified with no alias information or with 1, 5, or 9 aliases. Participants were asked to decide if the suspect was guilty and if so, what his sentence should be. Results showed that the presence of alias information influenced perceptions of guilt. However, in conditions where the defendant had more aliases, the maximum sentence was imposed less often. Relationship information linking the suspect and the victim in the materials was removed for some of the participants in Experiment 2. Participants (N = 265) were provided with either no alias information or all 9 aliases. An interaction was found in Experiment 2 demonstrating the alias advantage only when the relationship information was present. However, the relationship information had minimal effect on the attributions made toward the victim.

Crime↗