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Keynote Speaker: Heather Flowe

Saturday, June 14, 2025
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Lockewood Suite

Speaker

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Prof Heather Flowe
Professor
University of Birmingham

Beyond WEIRD: Supporting Memory Retrieval in Low Resource Environments

Abstract

How can we adapt evidence-based protocols, developed primarily in Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich and Democratic (WEIRD) contexts, to support accurate memory retrieval in communities facing resource constraints and structural barriers to accessing justice? This talk examines the challenges of maintaining memory accuracy in environments where traditional Western investigative infrastructure is lacking and witnesses face multiple obstacles to providing statements to the authorities. Drawing on research across non-WEIRD settings, I present evidence demonstrating how innovative approaches - from mobile technology to community-led initiatives - can support memory retrieval and maintain accuracy over time. Our findings show that scientifically grounded, contextually adapted methods can enhance recall while empowering local communities to gather accounts that meet international evidentiary standards. This work provides insights into supporting memory processes in real-world settings where WEIRD-centric practices must be balanced against practical constraints, local contexts, and community needs. The broader implications for developing sustainable, trauma-informed approaches to supporting memory retrieval across diverse global contexts will be discussed.

Paper Number

445

Chair

Prof Kimberley Wade
Professor Of Psychology
University of Warwick

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