NCJ Number
196939
Journal
Polygraph Volume: 31 Issue: 2 Dated: 2002 Pages: 119-128
Editor(s)
Deedra Senter
Date Published
2002
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This paper presents the results of two experiments using a new and considered controversial vocal stress measure, the Psychological Stress Evaluator (PSE), examining the validity of the PSE.
Abstract
The Psychological Stress Evaluator (PSE) is the original and most widespread of the vocal lie detectors. It is distributed as a lie detector employing voice analysis and used primarily in employment screening. However, validation evidence on the PSE is seen as mixed. This paper presents results of two laboratory tests/experiments on the validity of the PSE. These experiments attempted to provide a clearer profile of the PSE, testing it on two standard psycho-physiological tasks. Experiment 1 employed the guilty knowledge task developed as an interrogation procedure and more sensitive than traditional lie detection procedures. Experiment 2 employed the mental arithmetic task of Kahneman and Tursky. Results in Experiment 1 suggested a new failure for use of the PSE within interrogation settings. Results in Experiment 2, unlike Experiment 1, were positive. Both experiments provided opposing but complimentary conclusions regarding the validity of the PSE and together effectively mirrored the present validation literature. Two conclusions drawn from the evidence include: (1) some aspects of the PSE analysis of stress are valid suggesting the need for further studies; and (2) the present instrument is subject to serious practical problems raising doubts about its appropriateness. Tables, references