The Effects and Effectiveness of Using Torture as an Interrogation Device: Using Research to Inform the Policy Debate
Governments sometimes characterize torture as an indispensable interrogation tool for gathering strategic intelligence. In this article, we review the relevant social scientific research on the effectiveness, impact, and causes of torture. First, we summarize research on false confessions and examine the relevance of that research for torture-based interrogations. Next, we review research on the mental health consequences of torture for survivors and perpetrators. Finally, we explore the social-psychological conditions that promote acts of cruelty (such as those seen at Abu Ghraib) and examine the arguments typically offered to justify the use of torture. We argue that any hypothesized benefits from the use of torture must be weighed against the substantial proven costs of torture. These costs include the unreliable information extracted through interrogations using torture, the mental and emotional toll on victims and torturers, loss of international stature and credibility, and the risk of retaliation against soldiers and civilians. © 2009 The Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues.
Duke Scholars
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- 5205 Social and personality psychology
- 4408 Political science
- 4407 Policy and administration
- 1608 Sociology
- 1605 Policy and Administration
Citation
Published In
DOI
EISSN
ISSN
Publication Date
Volume
Issue
Start / End Page
Related Subject Headings
- 5205 Social and personality psychology
- 4408 Political science
- 4407 Policy and administration
- 1608 Sociology
- 1605 Policy and Administration