The multiple independent lineups (MIL) technique provides an eyewitness with several lineups pertaining to the same suspect (e.g., face, body, clothing, voice) and it has shown promising results as a reflector variable, discriminating between ‘innocent’ and ‘guilty’ identifications for child eyewitnesses (Carr & Bruer, 2025). However, how the evidence obtained through this method is perceived has not been explored. Using two studies, we aimed to fill this gap by examining how adults perceive child eyewitness credibility (i.e., identification and overall credibility) gathered using the MIL technique as depicted in a mock trial transcript. Study 1 examined if child eyewitness age (6 or 11 years old) and lineup technique (traditional lineup or MIL technique) influenced adults’ perceived child eyewitness credibility. Results suggest no perceptual differences as a function of child eyewitness age or lineup technique. Study 2 explored whether the number of suspect identifications made through the MIL technique influenced adults’ perceptions of child eyewitness credibility. Results found that the number of identifications made using the MIL technique influenced perceptions, such that six of six possible MIL technique identifications was perceived as most credible (cf. one and three of six MIL technique identifications). Overall, across both studies, we provide early evidence that adults may be open to having child eyewitness evidence gathered through the MIL technique.
