ISU Researchers Measure Fatigue in Suspect Confessions

Study aims to understand impact of lengthy police interrogations on reliability of statements

Mar. 29, 2026 at 11:10am

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A highly textured abstract painting in earthy tones of green, brown, and blue, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise botanical spirals, conceptually representing the complex physiological and cognitive factors that can impact the reliability of suspect statements during police interrogations.Innovative research aims to establish scientific guidelines for when fatigue may undermine the integrity of suspect confessions and statements.Ames Today

Iowa State University researchers are conducting a study to measure the impact of fatigue on the reliability of suspect confessions and statements made during lengthy police interrogations. The goal is to establish a scientific foundation for understanding how physical and mental exhaustion can affect the accuracy and truthfulness of information provided by suspects over the course of extended questioning sessions.

Why it matters

This research could have significant implications for the criminal justice system, as false confessions obtained through coercive interrogation tactics have been a major contributor to wrongful convictions. Understanding the role of fatigue in undermining the integrity of suspect statements could lead to reforms in police interview procedures to ensure more reliable evidence collection.

The details

The ISU study involves monitoring physiological indicators of fatigue, such as heart rate, breathing, and brain activity, in participants who are subjected to simulated police interrogations over an extended period of time. Researchers will analyze how these fatigue markers correlate with changes in the content and consistency of the participants' responses, with the aim of establishing empirical guidelines for when statements may become unreliable due to physical and mental exhaustion.

  • The ISU study began in January 2026 and is expected to continue for 12-18 months.

The players

Iowa State University

A public research university located in Ames, Iowa, known for its work in various scientific fields including criminal justice research.

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What they’re saying

“Establishing clear scientific evidence on the impacts of fatigue during police interrogations is crucial for ensuring the integrity of the criminal justice system and protecting the rights of suspects.”

— Dr. Emily Chandler, Lead Researcher, ISU Department of Criminal Justice

What’s next

The researchers plan to publish their findings in a peer-reviewed journal once the study is complete, with the goal of informing policy discussions around police interview protocols and suspect rights.

The takeaway

This ISU study represents an important step towards a more evidence-based approach to criminal interrogations, with the potential to reduce the risk of false confessions and wrongful convictions stemming from the effects of physical and mental fatigue on suspect statements.