How often have you heard the phrase, “If they confessed to the crime, they must be guilty”? After all, who would confess to a crime they didn’t commit?
The answer is a lot of people, especially if they are teenagers or young adults. Here’s what you should know:
The adolescent brain
The World Health Organization (WHO) considers anyone between 10 and 24 to be an adolescent, and several changes occur as the brain transforms into an adult brain.
One of the most crucial areas is the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for functions such as decision-making, impulse control and rational thinking. During adolescence, this part of the brain is characterized by an increased desire for peer approval, impulsiveness and a vulnerability to stress. This makes them more susceptible to coercive interrogation techniques.
Under the pressure of police questioning, young people may confess to crimes they didn’t commit to escape the immediate stress of the situation. They are likely to make decisions that prioritize short-term relief over long-term consequences. Furthermore, they may not fully grasp the severity of their admissions or the legal ramifications, leading them to comply with what they believe is expected of them.
Another factor leading to false confessions among adolescents is their lack of understanding of their legal rights. Many are unaware of their right to remain silent or to have an attorney present during questioning. Law enforcement may exploit this ignorance and mislead the individual into believing that confessing is their best option.
False confessions are a widespread problem in the justice system. Between 1989 and 2020, 375 wrongfully convicted inmates have been exonerated through DNA testing. Of those 375 people, 29% were imprisoned because of a false confession. Of the 29%, 49% were 21 years and younger, and 31% were 18 and younger at the time of their arrest.
It’s crucial that young people understand their rights. Having someone to discuss the various aspects of their situation and advocate on their behalf can help ensure those rights are protected.
