Problems in the Use of the Lie Detector

• NCJ Number: 150449
• Journal: Polygraph Volume: 23 Issue: 2 Dated: (1994) Pages: 174-180
• Author(s): L Keeler
• Date Published: 1994
• Length: 7 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Historical Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Reprinted from Public Management, V 22 (1940); also published in the Police Yearbook 1938-1939 (International Association of Chiefs of Police), P 136-142.

Annotation

This article, written by the inventor of the modern polygraph, outlines various problem areas that may be associated with the use of the polygraph in detecting deception.

Abstract

There are five main factors involved in the accurate diagnosis of deception. These revolve around the mental processes involved in the act of conscious deception, voluntary and involuntary changes in physiological processes, a suitable combination of instruments for recording bodily changes, an examination procedure for stimulating the mental processes in order to touch upon guilt complexes without otherwise disturbing the psychophysical equilibrium, and an experienced examiner who can conduct the examination properly and interpret the results accurately.