NCJ Number
73425
Date Published
1980
Length
290 pages
Annotation
Basic knowledge about the psychological and physiological premises of the polygraph and its application to courts, lawyers, legislators, businessmen, and the general public is provided.
Abstract
An introductory section discusses criticisms leveled against the polygraph by the private sector and in government hearings and judicial proceedings and cites research data establishing the validity and reliability of the modern polygraph. A brief history of the polygraph instrument is given, and the relationship of the current polygraph instrument to the automatic nervous system is detailed. The book also describes the evolution of the psychological structure of the polygraph technique to its present scientific state and covers various tests and techniques, some of which were developed by the author. A method of objective polygraph chart analysis is delineated, and problem areas in polygraph examinations are identified. In addition, the text analyzes research on the effects of various drugs and of hypnosis on polygraph examination results. It covers the selection, preparation, examination, and cross-examination of an expert polygraphist by an attorney; the use of polygraph results in legal actions; the application of privileged communication principles to attorney-client-polygraphist interactions; and the use of the polygraph in private business and in industry. Charts, photographs, references, and a bibliography of about 300 citations are included. Appendixes contain model polygraph test reports, permission forms, and a model State licensing act. (Author abstract modified)