CHAPTER 1

LIE DETECTION; HISTORY

Lesson 1. Lie Detection

[Link]: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

a. Defined Lie Detection
b. State the early methods of lie detection and compare it in today’s method
of detecting deception
c. Familiarized the different personalities and their significant contributions
in Lie Detection II. Motivation:
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF LYING
[Link]
136445063684365779/ III. Materials
 Internet Connection
 Cellphone
 Ballpen
 Notes
IV. Lesson Proper

LIEDETECTION: DEFINED

The system or practice of determining whether or not somebody is telling the truth
during
questioning. (a.k.a Deception Detection)

EARLY METHODS OF LIE DETECTION

The issue of lie detection is as old as man himself. Back in the ancient times,
rulers and their justice courts used various techniques to catch a liar and establish the
truth. Historical chronicles and ancient written records carry evidence about complex
rituals and sophisticated ordeals otherwise known as ‘divine justice’ developed to
this end.

EARLY FORMS OF TRIAL

 Trial by Combat (resolving issue by use of human
strength)
 Trial by Ordeal (by means of pain)
 Trial by Jury (fact finders)
 Trial by Torture (witch hunt)
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PRE- SCIENTIFIC METHODS OF DETECTING DECEPTION

1. TRIAL BY COMBAT

The aggrieved party claimed the right to fight the alleged offender or to
pay a champion to fight for him. The victor is said to win not by his own strength
but because of supernatural powers that had intervened on the side of the right,
as in the duel in the European Ages in which the “judgment of God was thought
to determine the winner”. If still alive after the combat, the loser might be
hanged or burned for a criminal offense or have a hand cut off and property
confiscated in civil actions.

2. TRIAL BY ORDEAL
A judicial practice by which the guilt or innocence of the accused is
determined by subjecting them to a painful task. If either the task is completed
without injury, or the injuries sustained are healed quickly, the accused is
considered innocent. In medieval Europe, like trial by combat, it was considered
as Judicium Dei: a procedure based on the premise that God would help the
innocent by performing a miracle on their behalf. The word “ordeal” was derived
from the Medieval Latin word “Dei Indicum” which means “a miraculous
decision”. a. RED HOT IRON ORDEAL

Practiced in the hill tribe of Rajhmal in North Bengal. The accused had to
carry a bar of redhot iron in his hands while he walked 9 marked paces. In the
unlikely event of no burns appearing on his hands, he was adjudged innocent.
Otherwise, he was promptly hanged. A variation of licking the rod-hot iron
sometimes, the suspect had to run barefoot over nine red-hot plowshares. The
hand or foot was bound up and inspected 3 days afterwards. If the accused had
escaped unhurt, the person was pronounced innocent, if hurt the person is
guilty.

b. ORDEAL OF BALANCE

Practiced in the institute of Vishnu, India. A scale of balance is used, in one

end of the scale, the accused is placed and in the other end a counter balance.

The person will step out of the scale and listen to a judge to deliver an exhortation on
the
balance and get back in. If he was found lighter than before then he should be
acquitted
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c. ORDEAL OF WATER

In this type of ordeal, the water was symbolic of the flood of the Old
Testament, washing sin from the face of the earth, allowing only the righteous
minority to survive.

There are two kinds of ordeal by water the boiling water and of cold water.
Ordeal of water was the usual mode of trial allowed to members of the lower
classes.

 Boiling Water Ordeal

According to the laws of Athelstan, the first King of England, the ordeal
consisted of lifting a stone out of the boiling water with the hand plunged as
deep as the wrist. More serious offences demanded that arm was submerged
up to the elbows. The burn was bandaged for 3 days before fateful
examination. One place in Cordillera still practice boiling water ordeal but it is
performed by various rituals. This ordeal is administered to the accused of
being a thief.

 Cold Water Ordeal

The usual mode of trial for witchcraft. In this ordeal, the accused was
tied at the feet and hands and was lowered to cold water by rope.

d. ORDEAL BY RICE CHEWING

Indians practiced this ordeal. It was formed with a kind of rice called
sathee, prepared with various incantations. The person on trial eats the sathee,
with the face to the east and then spits upon a pea leaf. If saliva is mixed with
blood or the corner of his mouth swells or he trembles, he is declared to be a liar.

e. ORDEAL OF THE RED WATER

In a wide region of Eastern Africa, the ordeal of the sassy bark or red
water is used. The accused is made to fast for twelve hours, and then swallows a
small amount of rice. Then he will be imbedded in dark colored water. The water
is actually emetic and if the suspect ejects all rice, he is considered innocent of
the charge. Otherwise, the accused is guilty.

f. ORDEAL OF THE CORSNEAD/ ORDEAL OF THE BLESSED BREAD

 3

A priest puts the corsnaed or hallowed bread in the mouth of the

accused, with various imprecations. If the accused swallowed it he was freed
from punishment.

g. TEST OF THE EUCHARIST

This was applied chiefly among the clergy and monks. When they took the
host it was believed that God would smite the guilty with sickness or death.
Others believed that if the accused is innocent, when given a poisonous drink for
him to take in, Angel Gabriel will descend from heaven to prevent the accused
from taking in the poisonous drink

h. ORDEAL OF THE BIER

It was an ancient belief that the slain dead could point out the killer. In
England, it was usual for the accused to approached the bier on the which the
corpse lays. In view of the witness, the wounds of the victim were observed to
see if they began to bleed again.

i. ORDEAL OF THE NEEDLE

A red-hot needle was drawn through the lips of the alleged criminal
and if blood flowed from the wound, he was deemed guilty, but if none, he is
innocent. Wanaka in Eastern Africa practiced this ordeal.

j. ORDEAL BY HEAT AND FIRE

The accused walked barefooted over coals of fire, or was made to walk
through fire. If he was unharmed by fire he was considered innocent.

k. TRIAL OF THE CROSS

The accuser and the accused were placed under the cross with their arms
extended or crosswise and the first to move his hands or suffer them to fall was
held guilty.

l. TRIAL OF THE WAXEN SHIRT

The accused was dressed in a cloth covered with wax and walked barefoot over coals of
fire. If
he was hurt by the fire and the wax did not melt, he was considered innocent.

m. HEREDITARY SIEVE METHOD

Hans Gross “Father of Criminalistics”, wrote in his famous book in Criminal

Investigation in which beans were thrown into a sieve as the name of the
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suspect was called, mentioned this ordeal. If the beans jumped out of the sieve,
the owner of the sieve is innocent. If the beans remained in the sieve the person
named is a thief.

n. THE SACRED ASS/DONKEY’S TAIL ORDEAL

A donkey was placed in a dimly lit tent or room. Its tail had been covered
with lampblack. All suspects of an offense were instructed to pass through the
enclosure and while going through they were to grasp the donkey’s tail. They
were also told that the donkey would bray when touched by the guilty person.

o. ORDEAL OF THE TIGER

Practiced in Siam, the accused and accuser are placed on a cage of a

tiger: if the tiger spare one of them he is considered innocent.

OTHER COUNTRIES PRACTICING ORDEAL

Burma- The Ordeal of Divination is being practiced in this country, whereby it involves
2 parties being furnished with candles of equal size and lighted simultaneously the
owner of the candle that outlast the other is adjudged to have won his causes.

Madagascar - Legal authorities practiced trial by ordeal. The supposed criminal was
made to drink a decoction, a poisonous fruit called “tangena”, a small dose is fatal.

Borneo- The accuser and accused were presented with shellfish placed on a plate. An
irritating fluid was then poured on the shellfish and the litigant whose shellfish moved
first was adjudged the winner.

Greece- A suspended axe was spun at the center of a group of suspects. When the
axe stopped, whoever was in the line with the blade as supposed to be guilty out by the
Divine Providence.

Nigeria- The priest greased a cock’s feather and pierced the tongue of the accused. If
the feather passed through the tongue easily, the accused was deemed innocent. If
not, the accused is guilty. Another method practiced into the same country is the
pouring of corrosive liquid into the eyes of the accused who was supposed to be
unharmed if innocent. Pouring of boiling oil over the hand of the accused with the usual
requisites for guilt or innocence is also practiced.

Ayur Veda- “Hindu book of health and science” the earliest known reference of the
methods for detecting deception.
 5

IMPORTANT PERSONALITIES IN POLYGRAPHY AND THEIR GREAT

CONTRIBUTIONS

The polygraph or most commonly known as lie detector, has been in existence in
police science many years ago. Tracing back its beginning, one may find out that there
are several persons instrumental in the development of the polygraph instrument as we
know it today- recording changes in respiration, galvanic skin response (GSR) or electro
dermal activity (EDA) and cardiovascular activity.

1. Daniel Defoe- He wrote an essay entitled “An effectual Scheme for the
Immediate Preventing of the Street Robberies and Suppressing All Other
Disorders of the Night” where he suggested the use of the pulse to detect
deception.
2. Angelo Mosso- he studied fear and its influence on the heart. In his observation
subsequently formed the basis for detecting technique. (Plethysmograph)

He devised a “scientific cradle”, which was designed to measure the flow

of blood while a person lay on his back in a prone position as it became
concentrated on one part of the body and then in the other.

3. Cesare Lombroso- employed the first scientific instrument to detect deception.

This instrument is known as Hydrosphygmograph, which measures changes in
pulse and blood pressure when suspects were asked about their involvement on
or knowledge of specific response.
He was accorded the distinction of being the first person to utilize an
instrument for the purpose of detecting lies.
4. William James Mackenzie a famous English heart specialist who first describe
the polygraph machine as the “ink polygraph”
5. William Moulton Marston (1915)- the self proclaimed “father of the
polygraph” conducted more numerous tests for detecting deception utilizing the
changes of systolic deception and develops his own method of reading systolic
blood pressure. He also recorded the respiration and noted the time of subject’s
verbal responses. He also experimented with galvanometer to record skin
resistance changes and gripping device to record tension. (Troville 2009)
6. John A. Larson 1921- developed an instrument capable of simultaneously and
continuously recording blood pressure, pulse rate and respiration. His invention
was designated as the “The Bread
Lie Detector”. He was credited as forerunner of modern polygraph. (Father of
Scientific Lie Detection) (Father of Polygraphy)
 6

7. Vittorio Benussi (1914) - discovered a method for calculating the quotient of

the inhalation to exhalation as means of verifying the truth and detecting
deception of the subject.
He demonstrated the changes in systolic blood pressure were of greater
value in determining deception than in changes in respiration.
8. Harold Burt (1918) - determined that the respiratory changes were signs of
deception and concluded that systolic pressure changes are valuable in
determining deception.
9. Luigi Galvani (1791) - an Italian psychologist who developed the galvanic skin
reflex. The GSR reflected emotional changes by measuring changes in person’s
skin resistance to electricity.
10. Sticker (1895) - he made the first galvanograph for detecting deception based
from the work of his predecessor and introduced the method of detecting from
the galvanic impression on the chart tracing. He worked on the influence and
relation of the sweat glands to skin resistance.
11. Veraguth (1907) - he was the first one to use the term “psycho galvanic
reflex”. He believes that that the electrical phenomenon is due to the activity of
sweat glands.
12. Richard O. Arther- he developed an improvised polygraph machine with two
galvanic skin resistance.
13. Cleve Backster (1960) - he created the numerical scoring on the polygraph
chart and standardizing quantitive polygraph technique. He developed the
Backster Zone Comparison Test.

14. Leonard Keeler (1925) - an American Psychologist invented a more

satisfactory instrument than the one used by Larson. Later on Keeler made
additional changes in the instrument, and at the time of his death in 1949 the
Keeler Polygraph included, in addition to units for recordings blood pressurepulse
and respiration changes, a galvanometer for recording what is known as the
galvanic skin reflex or electrodermal responses generally referred to as the GSR.
He also introduced the “card test and the peak of tension test.” (Father of
Modern Polygraphy)
15. John E. Reid (1947) - he developed improvement with the conventional
polygraph by incorporating muscular resistance his device was known as the
Reid polygraph. In 1950, he developed the Control Question which consisted of a
known lie and incorporated it into the relevant- irrelevant technique (Father of
Controls)
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OTHER CONTRIBUTORS FOR THE EVOLUTION OF POLYGRAPHY

American Polygraph Association

In 1966, the American Polygraph Association (APA) was established. At present it

consists of over 2500 members dedicated to providing a valid and reliable means to
verify truth and establish the highest standard of moral, ethical, and professional
conduct in the polygraph field.

The APA continues to be the leading polygraph professional association,

establishing standards of ethical practices, techniques, instrumentation, research, and
advanced training and continuing educational programs.

University of Utah Research

The University of Utah researchers introduced computer assisted polygraph

techniques in the early 1980’s , and they remain at the forefront of developments in
instrumentation and analytic methods for computerized polygraph system. The
methods for quantification of physiological reaction are based on more than 30 years of
scientific and field experiences by Dr. David C. Raskin and Dr. John C. Kircher. In
1998 they developed the Computer Assisted Polygraph System (CAPS) which
incorporated the first algorithm to be used for evaluating physiological data collected
for diagnostic purposes.

PolyScore and Objective Scoring System

In 1993, statisticians Dr. Dale E. Olsen and John Harris of John Hopskins
University Applied Physics Laboratory, Maryland completed a software program called
the Polyscore which used sophisticated mathematical algorithm to analyze the
polygraph data and to estimate a probability or degree of deception or truthfulness in a
subject.

Department of Energy

In 2003, the U. S Department of Energy commissioned a review committee of the

National Academy of Science to study the scientific evidence on the polygraph.

Withstanding more than a century of research, development and widespread

use, the polygraph examination remains the most effective means of verifying the truth
and detecting deception.
 8

Dr. Joseph F. Kurbis (1970) – of Furdham University in New York City is the first
researcher who used potential computer applications for the purpose of polygraph
chart analysis.

1992- the polygraph made its official entrance into the computer age

CHAPTER 2

POLYGRAPHY: ITS NATURE AND CONCEPT

Lesson 1. Polygraphy; Etymology and Definition

[Link]: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

a. Know the etymology of the word polygraphy
b. Define what is Polygraphy; Polygraph Examination and Polygraph
Examiner
c. Understand the tripod foundation of Polygraphy
d. Determine the factors that may affect the accuracy of the Polygraph result

The modern terminology for polygraph

examination is
“Forensic Psychophysiological
Detection of
Deception
(PDD)” II. Materials

II. Lesson Proper

ETYMOLOGY

The term polygraphy was derived from the Greek words “poly” which means
consisting or more than one or simply many and “graphein”/ “graphos” which means
to write. It means that the original Greek meaning for polygraph is many writings.

POLYGRAPH

A scientific diagnostic instrument used to record physiological changes in the

blood pressure, pulse rate, respiration and skin resistance of an examinee (subject)
under controlled condition. (a.k.a DECEPTOGRAPH; LIE-DETECTOR; PNEUMO-GALVO-
SPHYGMO-CARDIOGRAPH).

THOMAS JEFFERSON (1790) was the first person known to use the term Polygraph to
describe one
of his invention which could rewrite repeated words.
 9

TWO TYPES OF POLYGRAPH INSTRUMENT

1. Conventional/ Analog – the old and traditional type of instrument being used
in polygraphy today.
2. Computerized Polygraph- a sophisticated state of the art computer- aided
polygraph instrument.

POLYGRAPHY
The scientific method of detecting deception with the use of a polygraph instrument. It
is defined also as the science of truth verification based upon psychophysiological
analogues.

POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION

A series of test conducted on the person involved in the commission of a crime

and referred to the polygraph branch, and the formulation of questions which is
answerable by yes or no.

TRIPOD FOUNDATION OF POLYGRAPHY

1. Mechanical Leg Basic Premises- the polygraph machine or instrument is

mechanically capable of making graphical records containing reliable information
regarding physiological changes.
2. Physiological Leg Basic Premise- among the physiological changes that may
be recorded and identified are those that automatically occur only following the
stimulation of specific nervous system component and from which stimulation of
those specific nervous system components can be reliably diagnosed.
3. Psychological Leg Basic Premise- the specific nervous system component
whose stimulation can thus be diagnosed are so stimulated by the involuntary
mental and emotional processes of the individual who is consciously attempting
concealment of deception especially if that individual has something at stake
and the prevailing circumstances lead him to believe that exposure to detection
is a quite possible although undesirable.

POLYGRAPH EXAMINER

One who is capable of detecting deception and verifying the truthfulness of

statement through the use of a polygraph instrument.

ACCURACY OF THE POLYGRAPH TEST RESULTS

 10

The accuracy of the polygraph results ranges from 95 % to 100 % depending upon the
factors that affect the test.

OBJECTIVE OF THE POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION

The ultimate objective of Polygraph examination is to obtain the Subject’s

“ADMISSION or CONFESSION” of the offense committed.

FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE ACCURACY OF THE POLYGRAPH RESULT

1. The Instrument
2. The condition of the subject
3. The condition of the examination room
4. The qualification and skills of the examiner
 IDEAL EXAMINATION ROOM
1. It must be spacious for two persons
2. It must be well ventilated
3. It must be well lighted
4. It must not be decorated
5. It must be 90 percent sound proof
6. Room should be equipped with one way mirror

 THE SUBJECT/ EXAMINEE- any person who undergoes polygraph examination

Three General Types of Subjects

a. Victim or Complainant
b. Witness
c. Suspects

Conditions of the subject to be considered Fit before the polygraph Test

1. The subject must have a good night sleep prior to the test at least five hours
2. The subject must refrain from smoking for at least two hour prior to the test
3. The subject must not be interrogated for a prolonged period prior to the test
4. The subject must be free from any physical and mental abuse prior to the test
5. The subject must refrain from the use of alcohol, sedatives, prohibited drugs and
other cold syrups or capsules for at least 12 hours prior to the test
6. The subject must not be hungry
 11

7. The subject must not be suffering from any temporary illness such as: fever,
severe cold and cough, allergy, stomachache, toothache, open wound and the
like.
8. The subject must not highly and emotionally nervous.
9. The female subject must be free from menstrual cycle.
10. The subject must not be sexually abused.

Rights of the Subject

1. To be examined by a qualified examiner

2. To be determined if fit for examination
3. To be informed of the reason for the lie detector test
4. To have an explanation of the lie detector machine and what it does.
5. To give consent to the lie detector test.
6. Not to be compelled to undergo prolonged questioning.
7. Not to be exposed to oral criticism or abuse.
8. Not to be exposed to physical, mental or psychological abuse, and
9. To refuse to submit to the lie detector test.
 THE EXAMINER
1. Basic Qualification of Polygraph Examiner
a. An intelligent person with fair educational background- preferably college
degree holder
(BS Psychology and/ or BS Criminology)
b. He should have an intense interest in the work itself
c. Have a good practical understanding of human nature or behaviour in
general.
d. Has a suitable personality trait which may evident from his otherwise general
ability to get along with people and be well liked by his friends and
associates.
e. A person of good moral character.
2. Basic Training for Six Months:
a. Reading instruction in the pertinent phases of Physiology and Psychology
b. Frequent observation of an experienced examiner working on actual cases.
c. Personal experience in experimental case testing under instructor’s
supervision.
d. Examination and interpretation of a considerable number of records in solved
cases.
e. It should also include instruction, as well as observational and personal
experience, in the application of psychological tactics and techniques for
obtaining confessions and other helpful information subsequent to the testing
of truthful subjects.
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Note: As a general rule, the results of the polygraph test are INADMISSIBLE as
evidence.

Limitation of Polygraph

1. It is an invaluable investigative aid, but never a substitute for an investigation.

2. It is not a lie detector, but it is a scientific diagnostic instrument.
3. It does not determine facts; it records responses to that the subject knows to be
true.
4. It is an accurate as the examiner is competent.
5. The test will not be given until enough facts of the case have been established to
permit an examiner to prepare a complete set of suitable question.
6. A test will not be given without the voluntary consent of the subject.
7. No indication will be given to any person or place in any report that a person will
be considered guilty because he refuse to take the test.
8. A test will not be given until the accusations have been explained to the subject.
9. No attempt to use polygraph for mental or physical evaluation of any person.
10. No examination can be conducted to an unfit subject.

Lesson 1: Lie Detection Methods & Techniques

I. Objective: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

a. Explain how the different lie detection techniques are used
b. Know other new sophisticated techniques of detecting deception
II. Motivation

Inability to look straight in the eye or what we GAZE

called is the most prevalent signs of Lying. AVERSION

So if someone, cannot look straight in your eye during a

confrontation. That can be a sign that he or she is telling a lie.

III. Lesson Proper

[Link] involving the use of scientific devices that

record psycho- physiological responses-
these methods include:
a. Word Association Technique
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A list of stimulus and non- stimulus words are read to the subject
who is instructed to answer as quickly as possible. The answers to the
questions may be a “yes” or a “no”.
The test is not concerned with the answer, be it a “yes” or “no”.
The important factor is the time of response in relation to stimulus or
non- stimulus words.

[Francis Galton- he developed the much acclaimed psychological test known as the
Word Association
Test and which was later developed by Dr. Carl Guztav.]

b. Psychological Stress Evaluation (Voice Stress Analysis)

The psychological stress evaluator (PSE) detects, measures, and
graphically displays the voice modulations that we cannot hear.

Allen Bell and Charles Mc Quiston- American inventors who developed a

device called Psychological Stress Evaluator. The instrument detects slight trembling in
the voice, which may be interpreted to determine if person is telling the truth]

c. Polygraph Method
[Link] involving the use of substances that “inhibit the inhibitor” such as:
[Link] of “truth serum”

[Dr. Edward Mandel House- a U.S psychiatrist and diplomat who

introduced truth serum as a method of detecting deception.]

Drug Use:
• Hyoscine hydrobromide- given hypodermically in repeated doses
until a state of delirium is induced.
• Sodium Amytal
• Penthotal
• Seconal and other barbiturates
• Methanine, methyl pheridate
• Droperidol and Scopolamine
• Trichloroethylene Anesthetic Drug
b. Narcoanalysis (also called Narcosynthesis)- Psychiatric sodium amytal /
sodium penthotaldrug casues depression of the inhibitory mechanism of the
brain and the subjects talks freely. c. Intoxication with alcohol

The apparent stimulation effect of alcohol is really the result of control

mechanism of the brain, so alcohol, like the truth serum and narcoanalytic
drugs “inhibit the inhibitor”.
 14

In Vino Veritas – “in wine there is truth”

The use of this method in criminal investigation is not advisable because of the
following reason:

 Administration of this drug is dangerous- if not properly administered, it

may kill the subject or damage the brain or spinal in such a manner that
the subject will turned like a vegetable.
 Unreliable result- the information gathered from the subject is not reliable
to be true. If the subject gave false information before the test, he is also
likely to give false information under narcosis.
 It deprives the subject of his own free will to speak freely.
 Information taken from the subject under narcosis is not admissible in
court as evidence.
3. Hypnosis (Hypnotic induction)
Is the alteration of consciousness and concentration in which the subject
manifests a heightened of suggestibility while awareness is maintained.

[Anton Mesmer- in 1778 he was the first one to introduce hypnotism as a

method of detecting deception.]

4. Scientific observation and Interrogation

Signs and symptoms of Emotional Tension:
 Color change: blushing or red color face indicates anger and humiliation.
Paleness of the face is indicative of tension, fear and anxiety.
 Sweating: sweating in an air- conditions or well- ventilated room is a sign
of emotional tension but maybe indicating anger, humiliation and
nervousness. Cold damp perspiration is a manifestation of shock fear and
anxiety.
 Inability to look straight at the interrogator’s eyes is a symptom of guilt
although not conclusive when the subject was observed to have constant
movement and winking of the eyes avoiding to look “straight” at the
interrogator’s eyes as if the interrogator might see something in the eyes
of the subject that will manifest his guilt.
 Heart rate and pulse beat: the pulse beat can be observed at the neck ,
where there is an increased in the pulsation of the carotid artery which
almost always synchronize with the increase in heart rate. It is indicative
of guilt, nervousness and fear.
 Breathing: the holding of the breath is an indication of tension especially
when critical questions were asked, and then followed by a sudden,
explosive and longer expiration.
 15

 Dryness of the mouth and throat: there is dryness of the mouth and throat
because of the reflex inhibition of the salivary glands and it can be
observed repeated swallowing and wetting of the lips. In the male, there
is an upward downward movement of the “Adam’s Apple” in repeated
swallowing. It is an indication of tension and nervousness but maybe a
symptom of guilt.
 Peculiar and Unusual Expression: the “not feeling well” and “not that I
remember” are sometimes the remarks of the subject probably to avoid
divulging himself in the interrogation. The suspect who maybe nervous
may try to prove his innocence by swearing to the truthfulness of his
assertion. He may be repeatedly utter, “I swear to god that I am telling the
truth”

Unusual Behavior

 Clenching of the fist or hands indicate anger

 The placing of the upper extremities tightly at one or both sides of the
chest may indicate emotional tension of the subject.
 Crying while being investigated maybe indicative of tension, depression,
anger, humiliation and sometimes a demonstration to prove his innocence
about the crime in dispute.
 Other behaviors such as crossing and uncrossing the leg over the other,
tapping the table, rubbing the face or hair, twisting handkerchief or
clothing, snapping the fingers, biting the fingernails, manipulation of any
object and other body movements observed may indicate emotional
tension, nervousness, anger and sometimes mental disturbances.

However, there are new sophisticated techniques of detecting deception. These include
the following.

1. Brain Waves- has been used in neurophysiology for decades to uncover

processes in the brain. One type of brain waves called Event- Related Potentials
(ERPs) is of potential interest in lie detection. ERPs are recorded by sensors
placed on the scalp and can reveal the timing and general location of electrical
activity in the brain elicited by the presentation of sounds, words, text and
pictures. It has been shown that the ERPs can reveal whether an individual has
 16

guilty knowledge of crime related information when it is placed in a list of other

information that is unrelated to the crime.

2. Brain Imagery- a leading candidate for technology for lie detection is Functional
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (FMRI). An fMRI device is a powerful agnet and
sophisticated software that can track the brain’s use of blood over time. It is
assumed that more blood is used in particular regions of the brain when they are
active than when they are inactive. The hypothesis for lie detection is that the
sequence of the brain activitions will be different between lying and truth telling.
3. Eye Tracking- the pattern of a person’s eye movements over an image can
reveal whether the person has seen the image before.
4. Facial Analysis- research over the last two decades has suggested that
short duration facial expressions can reveal concealed emotions, and have
implications for the detection of lies.

CHAPTER 4

PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF POLYGRAPHY

Lesson 1. Psychological Aspects of Polygraphy

I. Objective: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

a. Defined what is emotion, fear and lying
b. Understand the psychology of lying
c. Explain the different types and signs of lying
II. Motivation

“MYTHOMANIA” is a condition where there is an excessive

or abnormal propensity for lying and exaggerating.

III. Lesson Proper

EMOTION

The word emotion dates back to 1579, when it was adapted from the French
word emouvoir, which means “to stir from up”.

It is defined as an agitation, disturbance or tumultuous physical or social

movement constituting a departure from the calm state of the organism as includes
strong feeling, and impulse to overt action and internal bodily changes in respiration,
circulation and granular reaction.
 17

Based on research Paul Ekman classified the six basic emotions: anger, disgust,
fear, happiness, sadness and surprise.

FEAR- An emotional response to specific danger that appears to beyond a person

defensive power.
STIMULUS- A force of emotion reaching the organism and excite deceptors. In short is
a force that arouses the organism of any part to activity.

DECEPTION- An act of deceiving or misleading usually accompanied by Lying.

DETECTION- An act of discovery existence pressure or fact of something hidden or

obscure.

LYING- An uttering or conveying falsehood or creating a false statement.

THE FOUNDATION OF POLYGRAPH TECHNIQUE

Theory and Concept

The Polygraph technique uses the principle that the bodily functions of a person
are influenced by his mental state.

Telling a lie is usually an emotional experience. A conscious act of lying causes

conflict in the mind of the examinee, which produces an emotion of fear or anxiety,
manifested by fluctuations in pulse rate, blood pressure, breathing, and perspiration.

TYPES OF LIE

1. Direct Denial- a lie that results to emotional disturbance. The disturbance is

caused by conflict of a person’s conscience and his attempt to deceive.
2. Lie of Omission- the type of lie commonly used because it is easy to tell. The
act of telling what transpired but omitting details that are incriminating.
3. Lie of Exaggeration- the type of lie used by a person who overplays what
actually happened.
4. Lie of Minimization- involves acceptance of a person that something happened
but downplays the implication or seriousness of the offense.
5. Fabricated Lie- also called lie of fabrication. This is the most difficult type of lie
that a subject could use in an interview.

KINDS OF LIES
 18

1. Benign or White Lie- Used to maintain harmony of friendship, harmony of the

home or office.
2. Red Lie- sometimes called misinformation is a lie in the form of information that
is seemingly valuable but is intended to destroy a political belief or ideology. Red
Lie is better known in politics as propaganda.
3. Malicious Lie- A chronic lie use to mislead justice.

TYPES OF LIAR

1. Panic liar- One who lies in order to avoid the consequence of confession. He or
she is afraid of embarrassment to love ones and is a serious blow to his or her
ego.
2. Occupational Liar- Is someone who has lied for years. This person is a practical
liar and lies when it has a higher pay-off than telling the truth.
3. Tournament Liar- One who loves to lie and is excited by the challenges of not
being detected. He views an interview as another contest and wants to win. He
lies because it is the only weapon remaining with which to fight. This person
convicted but will not give anyone the satisfaction of hearing him or her to
confess. He wants people to believe that the law is punishing an innocent
person.
4. Ethnological Liar- Is one who is taught not to be a squealer. This person loves
to interrogate to be interrogated and has taken a creed either personal or with
others, that he or she will never reveal the truth, the creed of underworld gangs.
5. Psychopathic Liar- This person has no conscience. He or she shows no regret
for his dishonest actions and no manifestation of guilt. This is the most difficult
type of liar because he is a good actor.
6. Pathological Liar- This person who cannot distinguish what is right from wrong.
These are those persons who are mentally sick.
7. Black Liar- one who enjoys pretending. A liar of this type is also known as
hypocrite.

Mythomania - It is the condition where there is an excessive or abnormal

propensity for lying and exaggerating.

SIGNS OF LYING

Verbal Clues

Verbal clues to deception to deception include not only the spoken word, but also
gestures of acknowledgment, such as nod of the head. When a deceptive person avoids
 19

a truthful answer by supplying evasive answer, he or she does so as an attempt to

reduce the inner conflict created by not telling the truth.

a. Methods of responding to the question- many clues to deception can be

found in the way the respondent answer the question. Truthful people tend to
be direct; untruthful people tend to be circumspect about the answer.
b. Length of time before giving response- in general, truthful persons
answer question quickly; untruthful persons take their time in giving
response. There may be an awkward silence, or the respondent may use a
delaying tactic, such as “who me?” or “why should I do”.
c. Repetition of question- repeating the question is another means for the
deceiver to gain time to frame his or her answer. The question may be
repeated verbatim, or the respondent may frame the answer with a request
the question. Example; “what did you say again? Or are you asking me if I
took Kickbacks? A truthful subject does not have to contemplate his or her
answer.
d. Fragmented or incomplete sentences- a liar will often speak in
fragmented or incomplete sentences. This is usually because he or she has
commenced the answer, and then thought better of it. Statements such as
“I. . . I. . . can’t think.. it seems to me... can be clues of lying.
e. Being overly polite- most people, when wrongly accused of something they
didn’t do, don’t take the accusation lightly. Anger is a common response to
an unjust accusation, as well as answering the statement with a “no”.
Untruthful subjects are more likely to be polite to the accuser, using flattering
terms such as “sir” or “maam”. The suspect who has been accused and is
untruthful will often say, “sir, no offense to you, but I didn’t do it”.
f. Oaths- untruthful persons will frequently recite oaths, such as “I swear to
God I didn’t do it” or “I swear on my Fathers grave”. Most truthful person do
not need to swear or affirm; they are vehement in their denials.

g. Clarity of response- truthful persons tend to be very clear in their response,

while untruthful persons tend to mumble, talk softly, and diffuse their
answers. Such responses are to avoid the stress caused by an untruthful
response; the liar is hedging. In that way, if caught in a lie, the earlier “soft”
response may aid in diffusing the lie.
h. Use of words- truthful subject have no trouble denying the allegation in
specific terms, while untruthful one will have problems with the wording used.
 20

i. Assertiveness- truthful people will respond directly without waiver or

qualification; untruthful people tend to respond indirectly with waivers and
qualification.
j. Inconsistencies- liars get caught up in their own web of deceit.
k. Slips of the tongue- Liars, as Freud discovered, quite often slip up and
reveal themselves through a “slip of the tongue”
l. Tirades- may be in direct proportion to the stress generated in the lie, and
occur at a time of anger or other strong emotion.
m. Pauses- pauses in speech patterns may be one of the more reliable clues to
deception. The examiner should evaluate pauses in speech that are too long,
too frequent, or which occur at inappropriate places more closely.
n. Speed of speech- peoples who are nervous or upset frequently increase the
speed of their speech words tend to run together and the conversation can be
disjointed. A pattern of increased speed of speech during the relevant portion
of the questioning could indicate deception.

Non- verbal Clues

Non- verbal clues are caused by the same reason that verbal clues are;
increased stress. Non- verbal clues include patterns in the body movements as well as
certain facial expressions.

a. Emblems- are expressions made with the body, whose meanings are clearly
understood. The universal “thumbs up sign” is an emblem, as well as the circled
finger and thumb to indicate okay.
b. Illustrators- are motions, primarily by the hands, to illustrate a point jabbing
your finger in the air.
c. Manipulators- are mostly habitual behaviour of touching one’s self.
Manifestations include grooming the hair, wringing the hands, picking imaginary
lint from a coat.
d. Breathing- although an involuntary movement, is very much affected by stress.
Many persons, under prolonged periods of stress, hyperventilate.
e. Sweating- excessive sweating could be very well indicate an involuntary reflex
with deception.
 21

f. Frequent Swallowing- a dry mouth frequently accompanies deep emotion.

Often the witness is not aware of increased efforts a swallowing.

CHAPTER 5

PHYSIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF POLYGRAPHY

Lesson 1. Human Body System

I. Objective: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

a. Define; Physiology and Psychophysiology
b. Know how are human body system reacts to a stimuli that will cause a
change and will affect the polygraph tracing

II. Motivation

“HONESTY JAR” The more you lie the

easier it gets
Participants in the study were asked to
lie to a partner in another room about
how many pennies were in a jar while
their brains were scanned to assess
activity in the amygdala
associated with emotion.

The study found that when the subjects

first lied, they activated the amygdala,
suggesting negative feelings about
doing so. But each time unsurprisingly,
when the subjects believed that lying
about the amount of money was to
their benefit, they were more inclined
to dishonesty. the subjects lied about
the money, the amygdala was
activated less and less — which would
make it easier for the person to keep
lying.

[Link]
2016/11/the-moreyou-lie-the-easier-it-
 22

gets-science/

III. Lesson Proper

PHYSIOLOGY

The science of the mechanical, physical, bioelectrical and biochemical functions of

humans in good
health, their organs, and the cells of which they are composed. In short, study of
human body.

PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGY

The study of the relationship or the effect of the mind to the body.

HUMAN BODY SYSTEM

1. Nervous System/ Neurological system- “Activator of the body system”

1. CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM- it consist of the brain (Chief of Staff) and spinal
cord. It is the processing area of information.
2. PERIPHERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM- it is responsible for providing sensory
information to the central nervous system and carry motor commands out to the
tissue body.
2.1 Somatic Nervous System- control voluntary command.
2.2 Autonomic Nervous System- which acts as a self- regulating response of
the body, controls involuntary motor commands.

TWO DIVISIONS OF ANS

2.2.1 Sympathetic Nervous System- a.k.a the “fight
or flight mechanism” increases alertness,
stimulates tissue, and prepares the body to quick
response to unusual
situation.
2.2.2 Parasympathetic
Nervous System- a.k.a the rest
and repose system  It is
functionally antagonistic to the
sympathetic nervous system.
Its role is to maintain the
homeostasis of the body which
is necessary for normal
 23

functioning. Therefore, it follows that whenever the

sympathetic activates the parasympathetic follows to
re- establish the chemical balance of the body.
2. Circulatory System- responsible for the distribution of the blood
3. Respiratory System- responsible for the taking of air into the lungs and also
expelling carbon dioxide
4. Excretory System- external covering of the body consisting essentially of
Epidermis, Dermis, and the Hypodermis.

CHAPTER 6

POLYGRAPH INSTRUMENTS

Lesson 1. Major Component of Polygraph Machine

[Link]: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

a. Familiarize the
different components if
polygraph machine; its
functions and nomenclature
b. Know how the machine
works

III. Lesson Proper

The major components of a polygraph machine are: CardioSphymograph,

Galvanograph, Pneumograph and Kymograph.

1. Cardio- Sphygmograph

It was designed to detect changes in the blood pressure and pulse rate of the
subject. It is also made up of the following:

 Blood Pressure Cuff which is attached to the upper right arm of the subject,
slightly above the brachial artery.
 Sphygmomanometer which is utilized to indicate the amount of air pressure
inflated to the system.
 Pump bulb assembly which inflates air into the system, also known as air
pump it has a hose connecting the blood pressure cuff through which the blood
pressure changes and passed into the recording pen.
 24

 A resonance control unit is used for reducing or increasing the amount o air
pressure to reach the brass bellows (tambour) and thus reduce or increase the
amplitude of pen excursions.
 A centering control which is used to provide adjustment of the tracing so that
the composite records patterns would be on the guideline.
 A vent which provides the means by which air in the system can be released.
 A recording pen unit which is used to record the blood pressure pulse rate
changes on the chart paper by means of a five inch recording pen.

2. Pneumograph Component:

It is designed to detect changes in respiration of the subject. Its major

components are the pneumograph chest assembly and the recording unit.

 Rubber convoluted tube which is ten inches in length corrugated rubber

attached to the chest and abdominal area of the subject. One end of the tube is
sealed and the other end is connected to the instrument by a rather thick walled
rubber tube considerably larger in diameter than the pneumograph tube itself, it
expands and contracts as the subject breathes.
 The beaded chain another component of the pnuemograph assembly is used to
fix in place the rubber convoluted tube.
 The pneumograph recording unit is made up of brass bellows, a frame,
crankshaft, countershaft, adjustable fulcrum, bearing with adjusting screw pen,
vent limiting screws, pen cradle and pen centering control. Volume changes of
the chest caused by breathing are transmitted to the chest assembly to the
recording unit. These activities bellows which move forward and backward
pushing the crankshaft in turn applies a torque to the countershaft upon which
the pen cradle is attached.
The backward and forward right movement is then recorded to a chart paper.

3. Galvanograph Component:

Its primary function is to detect changes or alterations in skin resistance of the

subject. It is made up of the following components:

 Finger electrode assembly which has a finger electrode and retainer bond
attached to the left index and ring finger of the subject. And a connecting plug
designed to fasten the system to the polygraph machine.
 Recording pen unit which is usually 7 inches in length.
 25

 Amplifier unit which is made to support the galvanometer in converting electrical

to mechanical current.

4. Kymograph Component:
Its primarily serves as the paper feed mechanism of the polygraph machine. It is
the device that records the different tracings by driving the paper out under a
recording pen unit. It pulls or drives the chart paper under a recording pen unit. It pulls
or drives the chart paper under a recording pen simultaneously at the rate of 6 to 12
inches per minute. The chart must travel at a uniform speed to facilitate valid
interpretations.

 Chart Paper is driven past the recoding pen shaft at a uniform speed six (6)
inches per minute. Chart rolls are approximately 100 ft. Holes spaced ½ inch
apart. The paper is imprinted with horizontal lines at ¼ inch interval twenty
divisions and vertical lines at 1/10 inch intervals with heavy lines at ½ inch
divisions across the paper which represents five (5) seconds of time.
 Pulse rate per minute may be computed by multiplying the number of beats
counted in one divisions by twelve (12) its major parts are as follows:
• Chart which is rolled graph paper composed of twelve (12) divisions in
sixty (60) seconds run designed to measure the rate of various body
functions.
• Rubber roller which pulls the paper out of the machine.
• Paper rail guide which serves to secure or ensure the chart paper’s
forward movement without shaking.

CHAPTER 7

PHASES OF POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION

Lesson 1. Three Phases of Polygraph Examination

[Link]: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

a. Know the purpose of each phase of examination
 26

b. Know the importance of obtaining first hand information before the polygraph
examination
c. Familiarize the different chart markings use in polygraph examination
II. Motivation
How a Polygraph works?
[Link]
III. Lesson Proper

Initial Interview with the investigator handling the case.

In order to conduct a satisfactory polygraph examination, it is necessary for the

examiner to obtain accurate information regarding all the available facts and
circumstances that form the basis for the suspicion or accusation directed against the
person to be examined.

This phase includes:

1. Obtaining the evaluating facts
2. Determining the areas the subject needs to be asked.
3. The examiner must furnish the examiner the following:
a. Sworn statement of the suspect, witness and victim/ complainant.
b. Incident or spot report
c. Background investigation (BI) of suspect’s action or movement.
d. Rough sketch of pictures of the crime scene and other facts such as:
1. Specific article and exact amount of money stolen.
2. Peculiar aspect of the offense was committed
3. Exact time the offense was committed
4. Known facts about the suspect’s action or movement
5. Facts indicating any connection between the suspect’s victim, and
witnesses.
6. Exact type of weapon, tool or firearms used.
7. Result of the laboratory test.
8. Unpublished facts of the offense known only by the victim, suspects and
the investigator of the case.

Phase I. Pre-Test- is the preparatory stage for polygraph examination. This includes
all consideration bearing on polygraph examination up to the time of actual activation
of the examination. The examiner pre-test interview with the subject prior to the test is
considerable importance both for the purpose of conditioning the subject for the
examination and also to provoke and observe indications of guilt or innocence.
 27

Pre-test Interview - before the actual testing is done, the examiner must
first make an informal interview of the subject which may last fro to 20 minutes
to 30 minutes.
Purpose of the Interview:
a. The appraisal of subjects constitutional rights
b. To determine whether the subject has any medical or psychiatric
condition or has used drugs that will prevent the testing.
c. To explain to the subject the purpose of the examination.
d. To develop the test questions, particularly those of the types to be
asked.
e. To relieve the truthful subject of any apprehension as well as to satisfy
the deceptive subject as to the efficiency of the technique
f. To know any anti- social activity or criminal record of the subject.
g. Preparing the subject for the test

Phase II. Test Execution (Questioning Phase) - the actual questioning to the subject
in polygraph examination. These include all consideration bearing on polygraph
examination from the time the instrumental attachments are placed on the subject
until the time the instrument is deactivated.

POLYGRAPH CHART OR POLYGRAMS

This refers to the composite records of Pneumograph, Galvanograph, and

Cardiosphymograph tracing
recorded from a series of questions

CHART MARKING

It is the process of using symbols on the polygraph chart to denote the subject
reactions and other circumstances that occur during the actual polygraph test.

TWO TYPES OF MARKINGS

1. Primary Markings- which indicate the beginning and end of examination as well
as the questions and answers of the subject.
X/60/1.5A - first marking of the examiner of the chart.

XX/60/1.5A - Marking after the test

X - Start of the test.

XX - End of the test
 28

// - stimulus marking [(/ (start); // (end) Place a vertical line or

the stimulus mark below the cardio tracing to indicate
the beginning and the ending of the question. A
double stimulus mark indicates the ending of the
question]
/ 1 // - Place the number between the stimulus marks, or below the
stimulus marking or to its right.
60 - millimetre of mercury shown in the sphygmo- dial
1.5 - ohms of skin electrical resistance sensitivity
A or M - refers to automatic or manual galvo amplifier
+ - subjects answers with “yes”
- - subject answers with “no”

2. Secondary Markings- markings which are placed only if the examinee does
something which will cause the physiological tracings to distort. These markings
are usually placed below the affected tracing.

-upward baseline adjustment RQ -Repetition of Question

downward baseline adjustment C -coughing
C+ -increase in galvo sensitivity CR -Crying by the
subject
C- -decrease in galvo sensitivity N -Noise
M -Movement S -Sigh
T -subject talked SW -Swallow or gulp
T----- -indicates the length of talking by L -Laughs or
T subject chuckles
TI -talking instruction Y -Yawn
B -Belches or burps SN -Sniff
A -downward adjustment of galvo pen SZ -Sneeze
V -upward adjustment of galvo pen BI -Breathing
Instructions
PJ -paper jump DB -Deep Breathing
VC -change of voice IS -Ink stop
CT -clearing throat MI -Moving
Instruction
ARM -Extraneous Factors due to blood OSN -Outside Noise
pressure cuff discomfort M---M -Prolonged
Movement
 29

Phase III. Post- Test- the consideration that bear polygraph examination from the
time the instrument is deactivated following final polygraph examination until the
diagnostic opinion is reported and the case is concluded. If the polygraph test result
indicates deception the examiner will then proceed to conduct short interrogation. The
purpose of which is to obtain confession.

 Post- Test Interview- is conducted when the reactions indicate truthful

response and the subject is very cooperative to the examiner.
 Post- Test Interrogation- the examiner will conduct interrogation if there is a
presence of significant reactions on the relevant questions indicative of
deception.

Three Diagnostic Opinions in Polygraph Examination

• Truthfulness
• Deception
• Inconclusive

CHAPTER 8

POLYGRAPH QUESTIONS AND TECHNIQUES

Lesson 1. Polygraph Questions

I. Objectives: At the end of the lesson, you should be

able to:
a. Know the rules in formulating test questions
b. Know the different Types of Questions and its purpose
c. Formulate different type of questions
II. Motivation [Link]
v=fkxmZu4V1SM

III. Lesson Proper

Rules to be observed in formulating test questions:

1. Questions must be concise as possible.

2. Questions must be direct and simple.
3. Questions should not be in the form of an accusation.
4. All queries must be answerable by yes or no.
 30

5. The terms to be used should be clear and understood by the subject.

6. All questions must refer to one element of a felony.
7. Question must not entail legal terminologies.
8. All questions should not contain inferences to one’s knowledge, religion, race,
ideology or belief.
Types of Question:

1. Irrelevant Question- these are question formulated without specific

relationship with the case under investigation and deals with a known fact about
which the subject cannot lie.
Purpose: To establish and re-establish subject’s normal tracing plus
response capability (excitement level) with verbal stimuli.
2. Relevant Question- a question formulate from information pertaining to the
object of the examination and pointed at determining the subject’s knowledge of
complicity in, or truthfulness or deception regarding the issue in question.

Purpose: To produce a change from the subject’s norm tracing plus

excitement level plus stimulus.

 To detect deception as a result of physiological changes in subject’s

norm.
 To resolve objectivity of the polygraph examination via chart probe
and further testing on potential reaction that result.

Classes of Relevant Questions:

a. Strong or Primary Relevant- having an intense and specific relationship to

the offense or problem being considered. (Ex: where you the one who
actually stole the missing assorted jewelries of Ms. Ana?)
b. Secondary or Weak Relevant- deals with secondary element of the crime
and probe mostly on guilty knowledge and partial involvement. (Ex: Between
10:00a.m and 11:00 p.m January 1, [Link] you open the table drawer of
Ms. Ana?)

Secondary Types of Relevant Questions:

a. Sacrifice or DYAT Question- designed to uncover the subject’s attitude,

cooperation towards the test. (Ex: Do you mind to answer truthfully all
questions about that?)
 31

b. Knowledge or DYK- designed to probe whether the subject possess

information regarding the identity of the offender, the location of the
evidence or other necessary elements of the case facts.
(Ex: Do you know for sure who stole the missing assorted jewelries of Ms.
Ana?)
c. Evidence- Connecting Questions- a question about some specific piece of
evidence found at the scene of the crime, to focus the subject’s attention on
the probability of incriminating proof that would establish his guilt. (Ex: Was
the evidence found at the crime scene yours?)
d. LTQ Question- a question used for protection against loss of psychological
control as approaching the end of the question series. (LTQ- Lied to any
Question)
1. Control Question (Probable Lie)- a question regarding a wrongdoing unrelated
but is of similar and less serious nature to the offense under investigation, and to
which the subject will lie or if he does not really lie he will think about it at the
time it is asked or be unsure of the complete truthfulness of his answer.

Purpose: To produce greater stress than an offense question in the

subject’s responding truthfully to queries about the offense.
To evoke less stress than the offense questions in deceitful subjects.
a. The Primary Control Question- is based on known lie. It must
concern about events that transpired within three to five years period
before case under investigation occurred.
(Ex: “Before reaching the age of 20, have you ever stolen anything?)
b. The Secondary Control Question- is more specific in nature and is
based on another experience or wrongdoing. This will enhance the
opportunity for responsiveness. It scope covers up to the present
period. (Ex: “Have you ever committed any crime in your
community?”)
2. Symptomatic Questions- a question that relates about the subject trust in the
examiner regarding confinement to the original issue under investigation. (Ex:
Are you now convinced that I will not ask you any question aside from these we
have reviews? Or Are you afraid that I will ask you about something else which I
told you I would not?)
Purpose: To ascertain presence of subject’s hidden fears or apprehension
unrelated to the issue.
3. SKY Question- these are three (3) question groups together and used only on
the fourth chart in Backster Zone Comparison Test. S= Suspect, K= Know, Y=
 32

You. (Ex: “Do you SUSPECT anyone in particular in stealing Ana’s money? Do
you KNOW who stole Ana’s money? “Did YOU steal Ana’s money?)
Purpose: To confirm specific response from previous
charts taken. To detect indirect/ direct
involvement or guilty knowledge.

Lesson 2. Test Technique

[Link]: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

a. Know the different test technique use
and its purpose
b. Know the supplementary test and
how it is conducted II. Material
 Notes
 Ballpen
III. Lesson Proper

A.R/I TEST- is consists primarily of the irrelevant and relevant questions presented in a
structured sequence.

TEST 1- GENERAL QUESTION TEST/GENERAL SERIES TEST

These are series of relevant and control questions in a planned order. The
questions are so arranged in order to compare the subject’s responses between each
type of questions.

Q1 Irrelevant - Is your first name Rain?

Q2 Irrelevant - Do you know that today is Sunday?
Q3 Weak Relevant - Bet. 7:30am to 10:30am of Oct. 25, 2006, did you open the
table drawer of Mr.
Erap?
Q4 Irrelevant - Are you married?
Q5 Strong Relevant - Were you the one who actually took the missing money of
[Link]?
Q6 Control - Before attaining the age of 25 have you ever stolen anything?
Q7 Irrelevant - Do you know how to read?
Q8 Evidence connecting - Were the bunch of keys recovered under the table of
Mr. Erap, yours?
Q9 Knowledge - Do you know who stole the cash money of Mr. Erap?
Q10 Secondary Control - Have you ever stolen anything from your current
employment?
 33

Purpose: The first 2 irrelevant questions are intended to condition the subject to
have standard tracing and to establish truth telling patterns

TEST 2- CARD OR NUMBER TEST (STIMULATION VERIFIVCATION TEST)

The examiner shows the subject seven (7) variously numbered cards. Face down.
The cards are arranged in such a way the examiner will immediately know which card
has been picked by the subject. The cards with numbers 15, 8, 5, 3, 4, 14, and 12 are
used. The subject is instructed to select one card, look at it and memorize the number
of the card selected and put it back to the group without showing it to the examiner or
otherwise identify the number. After the selection the examiner then shuffles the card
and instructs the subject to answer “no” to each question concerning the cards, even
when asked the number of the card he selected. In other words one of the subject’s
answer to the question will be a lie. The stimulation test is designed to reassure the
innocent examinee of the accuracy of the test and of the test and of the competency of
the polygraphist. It further serves to stimulate the guilty examinee.

Purpose: To check possible distortions when the chosen number is asked

TEST 3- SPOT RESPONDER TEST

This test contains previously asked questions in General Question Test. With the
number corresponding to the number of the question on the earlier test, the mixture
would be.

Q1 Irrelevant
Q3 Weak Relevant
Q2 Irrelevant
Q5 Strong Relevant
Q4 Irrelevant
Q6 Control
Q7 Irrelevant
Q8 Evidence Connecting
Q9 Knowledge
Q10 Secondary Control

Purpose: To determine the responsiveness of the subject to crucial questions

and also serve as a check on possibility of spot respond

TEST 4- MIXED QUESTION TEST

The Question of General Question Test is again mixed and the mixtures of the
questions are as follows:
 34

Q4 Irrelevant
Q1 Irrelevant
Q9 Knowledge
Q6 Control
Q2 Irrelevant
Q3 Weak Relevant
Q10 Secondary Control
Q5 Strong Relevant
Q6 Control
Q8 Evidence Connecting
Q10 Secondary Control

Purpose: To compare the degree of reaction between Relevant and Control

Questions

TEST 5- SILENT ANSWER TEST

The subject is instructed to refrain from giving any audible answer. The subject is
told to listen to each test question and to answer only to himself, silently. Moreover he
is to think of the truthful answer and give that truthful answer to himself, but silently.

Purpose: To serve as a confirmatory check

B. ZONE COMPARISON TEST

This test is alternatively known as Zone of Comparison test, it is the polygraph

technique most commonly used for polygraph interrogation concerning a single issue,
and it is used especially in criminal investigations.

Q1 Irrelevant

Q2 Sacrifice Relevant

Q3 Symptomatic

Q4 Control

Q5 Strong Relevant

Q6 Control

Q7 Strong Relevant

Q8 Control Q10

Weak Relevant

Supplementary:

Q11 Suspect
 35

Q12 Know
Q13 You

 Supplementary Test
Aside from the standard test described above, the following special tests may be
performed and incorporated as a part of the standard procedure or may be used as
supplementary tests depending upon the result of the standard test in order to draw a
better conclusion.
a. Yes Test- is conducted by instructing the subject to say “Yes” to all the
questions to be asked, including to those pertaining to the matter under
investigation.
b. Guilt Complex Test-in the response on the previous test is doubtful, it
becomes necessary to conduct additional test. This consists of a test
regarding fictitious incident of a similar nature but one which appears be real
in so far as the subject is concerned.
Purpose: To compare the responses with those that appeared on the
actual test record when question were asked about the matter under
investigation. (Ex: Did you steal the money from the house of Bonifacio?)
c. Peak- of – tension- test- the subject may be given this test if he is not yet
informed of the detail of the offense for which he is being interrogated by the
investigator, or by other persons or from other sources like the print media.
d. Silent Answer Test- this is a confirmatory test because the subject is afraid
of the unfamiliar and the unknown. It is an examination in which the subject
is instructed by the examiner to avoid audible response to the questions
asked.

CHAPTER 9

CHART TRACING AND INTERPRETATION

Lesson 1. Chart Tracing & Interpretation

I. Objective: At the end of the lesson,

you should be able to:
a. Illustrate and explain the
different polygraph tracing
segment
b. Know the different pneumo
tracing deception responses
 36

c. Defined Chart interpretation and

Chart Probing
d. Know the General and Legal Rule in
Chart Interpretation
e. Know all the possible results is polygraph examination
Fig. 2 Polygraph Tracing

II. Lesson Proper

FOUR KINDS OF POLYGRAPH TRACING SEGMENT:

1. Average Tracing Segment- a segment within a tracing that shows no

physiological evidence in the emotional level within the stress area on the
polygraph chart or polygrams.
2. Reaction Tracing Segment- a segment within a tracing that shows
physiological evidence that the sympathetic subdivision of the autonomic
nervous system has become active following the stress area on the polygraph
chart, indicating a psychological return to the subject’s exhibited average
emotional level.
3. Relief Tracing Segment- a segment within the tracing that shows physiological
evidence that the parasympathetic subdivision of the autonomic nervous system
has become active following the stress area on the polygraph chart, indicating a
physiological return to the subjects exhibited average emotional level.
4. Distortion Tracing Segment- a segment within a tracing that departs from the
average emotional level but lacks physiological evidence of either sympathetic or
parasympathetic activation within the stress area on the polygraph chart,
indicating a lack in psychological origin.

PNEUMO TRACING DECEPTION RESPONSES

1. RESPIRATORY BLOCK- a block or

stoppage in respiration, occurring
immediately after the subject’s
answer to a test question and lasting for several seconds, is a very reliable
symptom of deception. This form of suppression may appear at the end of the
exhalation stage of the respiratory cycle.

2. RESPIRATORY BLOCK- appears at

the end of the inhalation

3. Respiratory Block- a
suppression that
 37

approaches but does not quite equal the typical respiratory blocks. It is
nevertheless, of equal significance as a criterion of deception.

SUPPRESSION

4. STAIRCASE SUPPRESSION- a suppression of respiration that assumes the

appearance of a staircase or upgrade set of steps, and which begins
immediately after a test question has been answered. It may occur in several
forms, as shown above and as indicated by arrows.
5. RESPIRATION BASELINE RISE- a rise in the respiration baseline at the
time a test question is asked, is another very reliable symptom of deception.
The rise usually lasts for 15 or 20 sec, after which the baseline ordinarily
returns to its normal level.
6. ORDINARY
SUPPRESSION- equally
as significant as the
foregoing responses is a
form of suppression in
respiration that cannot be
categorized except as
ordinary. It does not
possess any very
distinctive characteristic
such as block, a staircase,
or a rise in baseline, but it
nevertheless constitutes a
reliable criterion of deception.
Observe that some of the
tracings combine minor scale
characteristics of blocks, staircase,
and baseline rise, but the only truly
distinctive quality is a general form of
suppression.
7. RESPIRATION CYCLE
CHANGE- (slower, faster, or
heavier breathing) a change in
 38

respiration cycle, after the asking of relevant question, is another dependable

criterion of deception. A widening of the cycles is indicative of slower
breathing during the relevant question interval. B, the deception criterion
appears here in the form of a slow sliding expiration tracing. C, the cycles
here are more frequent because of faster breathing. D, the longer cycles are
indicative of heavier breathing during the relevant question interval.
8. POST DECEPTION RESPIRATION RELIEF - heavier breathing, after a
crucial question or even at the end of the test itself and without being
preceded by any obvious suppression, is another reliable criterion of
deception. A, in this case the subject’s respiration tracing throughout the first
three questions appeared quite normal, but after the fourth the subject gave
a sigh of relief in the form of three heavy breaths. B, this subject’s
characteristics response was his heavier breathing, at points marked with
arrows, about 20 sec after his answer to a crucial question. C, the
phenomenon of respiration “relief” might be described as a “recovery” from
an oxygen debt created by the period of suppression in respiration. On
occasions, although very rare, the oxygen recovery mat come in the form of
faster breathing, as in C, rather than in the form of heavier breathing , as in A
and B.
9. ERRATIC SPECIFIC RESPONSES- contrary to what is sometimes assumed,
erratic breathing of the types shown here is not due, ordinarily, to deliberate
efforts on the part of the subject; at apparently results solely from his own
natural disturbance over the fact of lying.

10. PSEUDODECEPTION ANTICIPATORY RESPONSE IN RESPIRATION- the

previously illustrated specific
responses in respiration
assume significance only when
they appear, and continue,
after the answering of a
question, or at most not only
any earlier than a one cycle
interval before the question is
answered, if the response
occurs prior thereto, it
 39

ordinarily is not indicative of deception and may be considered a

psuedodeception anticipatory response.
11. GENERALLY ERRATIC RESPIRATION- there are instances where deception
is reflected in the respiration by only a generally erratic pattern rather than in
the form of specific changes. Generally erratic pattern may result from
excessively slow or excessively fast breathing as in A and B, respectively.
When in this form they are usually the result of a deliberate effort on the part
of the subject to mislead the examiner.

CHART INTERPRETATION

The process of reading and deciphering the meaning of graphical responses of the
subject based on
the chart tracings.

CHART PROBING

The process of showing the polygram to the subject and providing a brief
explanation on the dissimilarities or the responses with the objective of determining the
true cause of recorded responses and to clarify the confusion or misunderstanding that
might have been caused by vague response.

THE GENERAL RULE IN CHART INTERPRETATION:

 There must be specific response.

 To be specific, it must form a deviation from the norm.
 The specific responses must appear in at least two (2) test charts.
 The best indication of deception is the simultaneously specific in the three (3)
tracings of the chart.
“THE LEGAL RULE IN CHART INTERPRETATION”
There must be specific responses and the specific responses must appear
consistently the same in relevant questions in two or more chart.
FINAL RESULT
A Polygraph test result is a strictly confidential statement and its result can only
be disclosed to the examinee or a third party nominated in writing by the examinee.

There are four possible results:

• NDI - No Deception Indicated (Truthful)

• DI - Deception Indicated (Deceptive)

• IC - Inconclusive (Insufficient physiological responses)

 40

• DD - Deliberately disruptive

 False Positive occurs if the truthful subject is reported to be deceptive and

 False Negative occurs when the deceptive subject is reported to be truthful

CHAPTER 10

ACCURACY & LEGAL ASPECT OF POLYGRAPH

Lesson 1. Accuracy of Polygraph Examination and its Legal Aspect

I. Objective: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

a. Understand the Admissibility and Inadmissibility of Polygraph examination
result
b. Understand the Legal aspect of Polygraph Examination
c. State court cases and decision rendered both foreign and local, regarding
polygraph admissibility of the examination

II. Lesson Proper

ADMISSIBILITY ACCURACY OF POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION

RESULT

Question: Is Polygraph Examination Result admissible in court?

Answer: YES, if allowed by the judge.

Polygraph and expert testimony relating thereto can be admissible upon stipulation
to support other evidence of a defendant’s involvement in crime charge his testimony
under the following condition.

 That the admissibility of polygraph test result is subject to the decision of the
trial judge like for example if the trial judge is not persuaded that the examiner
is competent or that the test was conducted under proper condition, he may
reject to accept such evidence.
 That counsels of both parties and the subject sign a written condition providing
for his admission to the examination and for the succeeding admissions at trials
of the graphs and the examiners opinion thereon in behalf of either the
defendant or the state.
 That if the examiners opinion are offered as evidence, the opposing party shall
have the right to cross examine the examiner respecting:
a. The qualification and training of the examiner
 41

b. The stipulation under which the test was administered

c. The restrictions and possibilities for the errors of the technique
d. At the good judgment of the trial judge, any other matter deemed
important to the inquiry; and
e. That if admitted as evidence, the examiners testimony does not inclined
to prove or disproved any element of the crime with which a defendant is
charge but at most tends only to specify that at the examination, subject
was not telling the truth. The trial judge shall determine the weight and
the effect of such testimony.

Question: Why it is Polygraph Examination is Self Incriminating?

Answer: Because whatever taken from his/her body can be used against him/ her.

Question: Is Polygraph result Conclusive?

Answer: No because polygraph result is opinionated

Question: What is the other means that the Polygraph result can be admissible in
court aside from stipulation and order from the court?

Answer: During the presentation of the defense they should established the fact that
polygraph examiner upon request of the investigator examined the accused and they
would like to offer as evidence the technical report of the examiner. The court will
accept the evidence base on the presumption that the polygraph report is suppressed
evidence since the finding is against the finding of the investigator.

LEGAL STATUS OF POLYGRAPH

Polygraph result is ADMISSIBLE in court:

1. When the examination is conducted upon a court order.

2. When business suffers economic loss and the employee of that business who
refuses the exam is implicated.
3. When the polygraph is made a condition or precedent to employment in
continuous employment.
4. When the nature of the subject’s relation to the public so demand. (Public Trust
is Paramount)

ACCEPTANCE OF THE POLYGRAPH

Many countries all over the world have utilized polygraph technique as a method
of lie detection. It has been proven that is a valuable aid in investigation. In some
countries, polygraph test results are admitted as evidence in court. In the U.S., almost
 42

all courts utilized polygraph and more than one half of these courts accept it as
evidence in criminal prosecution.

Admissibility of polygraph test results as evidence in court differs between

jurisdictions allows the introduction of evidence of polygraph test results if the parties
to the case stipulate to its admissibility. Its introduction as evidence at trial may not be
allowed on other jurisdiction but will permit its introduction in to other situations such
as sentencing, hearing, probation and parole hearing and in certain administrative
hearings. New Mexico has offer the admissibility of polygraph evidence without
stipulation of the parties, including the qualifications of the examiner and if polygraph
examination conditions have been met. Jurisdictions vary regarding the admissibility of
polygraph results, but most jurisdictions agree that voluntary statements and
confessions made during a polygraph examination are admissible. In considering the
admissibility of polygraph results, it is important to consult the law of the relevant
jurisdiction.

Few representative cases in United States regarding polygraph admissibility are

listed below.
a. Arizona State vs.
Mendez
b. California State vs.
Espinosa
c. Delaware State vs.
Foraker
d. Hawaii State vs.
Okumura
e. Indiana State vs.
Sanchez
f. Kansas State vs.
Wakefield
g. North Carolina State vs.
Fleming
h. Ohio State vs.
Hesson
i. Texas State vs.
Perkins
j. Federal Courts U.S vs. Pasado
U.S vs. Thomas
U.S vs. Piccinonna
U.S vs. Galbreth

DEFINITION OF TERMS

1. 1895- the first attempt to use a scientific instrument stressing its importance to
Lie Detection.
 43

2. 1945- Polygraph was first introduced in the Philippines.

3. Admission- a self- incriminating statement which falls short of an
acknowledgement of guilt.
4. Allen Bell and Charles Mc Quiston- American inventors who developed a
device called Psychological Stress Evaluator.
5. Angelo Mosso- he studied fear and its influence on the heart. He developed the
sphygmomanometer and “scientific cradle”, which was designed to measure the
flow of blood while a person lay on his back in a prone position as it became
concentrated on one part of the body and then in the other.
6. Anton Mesmer- he was the first one to introduce hypnotism as a method of
detecting deception.
7. Average Tracing Segment- a segment within a tracing that shows no
physiological evidence in the emotional level within the stress area on the
polygraph chart or polygrams.
8. Ayur Veda- a Hindu book of science and health around 500 BC considered as an
earliest known reference to a method of detecting deception
9. Beaded Chain- another component of the pnuemograph assembly which is
used to fix in place the rubber convoluted tube.
10. Benign or White Lie- Used to maintain harmony of friendship, harmony of the
home or office.
11. Black Liar- one who enjoys pretending. A liar of this type is also known as
hypocrite.
12. Blood Pressure Cuff which is attached to the upper right arm of the subject,
slightly above the brachial artery.
13. Card Test- the subject is asked to choose one from seven numbered cards, take
it and return the same without telling the examiner or otherwise identifying the
chosen number. The card is then shuffled by the examiner and instructs the
subject to answer NO concerning the cards when shown. This is to single out
which among the answers given by the subject is a lie.
14. Cardio- Sphygmograph- It was designed to detect changes in the blood
pressure and pulse rate of the subject. It can record changes of systolic blood
pressure and pulse rate of the subject.
15. Cardiosphygmograp- it records the changes in pulse rate and blood pressure.
16. Centering control which is used to provide adjustment of the tracing so that
the composite records patterns would be on the guideline.
17. Cesare Lombroso- He was accorded the distinction of being the first person to
utilize an instrument for the purpose of detecting lies.
18. Chart Interpretation- The process of reading and deciphering the meaning of
graphical responses of the subject based on the chart tracings.
 44

19. Chart Marking - It is the process of using symbols on the polygraph chart to
denote the subject reactions and other circumstances that occur during the
actual polygraph test.
20. Chart or Polygrams- refers to the composite records of the Pneumograph,
Galvanograph, and Cardiosphymograph tracing recorded from a series of
questions.
21. Chart Paper is driven past the recoding pen shaft at a uniform speed six (6)
inches per minute. Chart rolls are approximately 100 ft.
22. Chart Probing- The process of showing the polygram to the subject and
providing a brief explanation on the dissimilarities or the responses with the
objective of determining the true cause of recorded responses and to clarify the
confusion or misunderstanding that might have been caused by vague response.
23. Cleve Backster- he created the numerical scoring on the polygraph chart and
standardizing quantitive polygraph technique.
24. Confession- refers to the voluntary statement made by a person given to
proper authorities wherein he acknowledges himself to be guilty of an offense
and discloses circumstances of his act and participation he had in the felony.
25. Control Question - a question regarding a wrongdoing unrelated but is of
similar and less serious nature to the offense under investigation, and to which
the subject will lie or if he does not really lie he will think about it at the time it is
asked or be unsure of the complete truthfulness of his answer.
26. Deception Detection method- it is a method of gathering and knowing
information from the subject about the crime in dispute employing the use of
machine or devise.
27. Deception- is an act of deceiving or misleading usually accompanied by lying.
28. Detection- an act of discovery existence pressure or fact of something hidden
or obscure.
29. Diacrotic Notch- a short horizontal line on cardio tracing located at the middle
of diastolic stern.
30. Diastolic Blood Pressure- refers to the downward blood pressure representing
the lowpressure to the closing of the valves and heart relaxed.
31. Direct Denial- a lie that results to emotional disturbance. The disturbance is
caused by conflict of a person’s conscience and his attempt to deceive.

32. Distortion Tracing Segment- a segment within a tracing that departs from the
average emotional level but lacks physiological evidence of either sympathetic
or parasympathetic activation within the stress area on the polygraph chart,
indicating a lack in psychological origin.
 45

33. Dr. Edward Mandel House- a U.S psychiatrist and diplomat who introduced
truth serum as a method of detecting deception.
34. Electrodermal Response- reaction of skin measured by changes in its
electrical properties, including skin resistance, skin conductance, and skin
potential.
35. Environment- is the sum total of the dissimulation that a person acquired from
the time he was conceived and his exposure to his surroundings.
36. Ethnological Liar- Is one who is taught not to be a squealer. This person loves
to interrogate to be interrogated and has taken a creed either personal or with
others, that he or she will never reveal the truth, the creed of underworld gangs.
37. Evidence- Connecting Questions- a question about some specific piece of
evidence found at the scene of the crime, to focus the subject’s attention on the
probability of incriminating proof that would establish his guilt.
38. Fabricated Lie- also called lie of fabrication. This is the most difficult type of lie
that a subject could use in an interview.
39. False Negative occurs when the deceptive subject is reported to be truthful.
40. False Positive occurs if the truthful subject is reported to be deceptive and
41. Fear- is an emotional response to specific danger that appears to beyond a
person’s defensive power.
42. Finger Electrode - attached to the left index and ring finger of the subject.
43. Finger Electrode Plate- a part of the galvanograph assembly attached on the
left fingers of the subject particularly the index and ring finger.
44. Forensic Psychophysiological Detection of Deception- The modern
terminology for polygraph examination.

45. Francis Galton- he developed the much acclaimed psychological test known as
the Word Association Test.
46. Galvani- who developed the galvanic skin reflex. The GSR reflected emotional
changes by measuring changes in person’s skin resistance to electricity.
47. Galvanograph- Its primary function is to detect changes or alterations in skin
resistance of the subject.
48. Gaze Aversion- Inability of the subject to have an eye to eye contact with the
person questioning. The most prevalent sign of deception.
49. Graphos- means writings.
50. Harold Burt- determined that the respiratory changes were signs of deception
and concluded that systolic pressure changes are valuable in determining
deception.
51. Heredity- the transmission of mental and physical traits from parents to
offspring.
 46

52. Homeostasis- called the state of equilibrium between the internal and external
environments of the human body.
53. Hydrosphymograph- measured changes in pulse and blood pressure when
suspects were questioned about their involvement of a specific offense.
54. Hyoscine Hydrobromide- is given hypodermically in repeated doses until a
state of delirium is induced.
55. Hypnosis- It is the alteration of consciousness and concentration in which the
subject manifests a heightened of suggestibility while awareness is maintained.

56. In Vino Veritas- In wine there is truth.

57. Initial Interview- usually conducted by the investigator handling the case or a
ploygaph examiner who was given brief but significant details of the case it is
designed to obtain pertinent information.
58. Irrelevant Question- these are question formulated without specific
relationship with the case under investigation and deals with a known fact about
which the subject cannot lie.
59. James MacKenzie- devised the Ink Polygraph.
60. John A. Larson- the real “Father of lie detection”. He developed an instrument
capable of simultaneously and continuously recording blood pressure, pulse rate
and respiration.
61. John E. Reid- he developed improvement with the conventional polygraph by
incorporating muscular resistance his device was known as the Reid polygraph.
62. Keymograph- It pulls or drives the chart paper under a recording pen
simultaneously at the rate of 6 to 12 inches per minute.
63. Knowledge or DYK- designed to probe whether the subject possess information
regarding the identity of the offender, the location of the evidence or other
necessary elements of the case facts.
64. Leonard Keeler- an American Psychologist invented a more satisfactory
instrument than the one used by Larson. He device a metal recording bellows;
rolled chart paper. In 1949, he incorporated Galvanograph with measurement of
blood pressure and respiration into a portable case.
65. Lie of Exaggeration- the type of lie used by a person who overplays what
actually happened.
66. Lie of Minimization- involves acceptance of a person that something happened
but downplays the implication or seriousness of the offense.
67. Lie of Omission- the type of lie commonly used because it is easy to tell. The
act of telling what transpired but omitting details that are incriminating.
68. LTQ Question- a question used for protection against loss of psychological
control as approaching the end of the question series.
 47

69. Lying- is an uttering or conveying a falsehood or creating a false statement.

70. Malicious Lie- A chronic lie use to mislead justice.
71. Mechanical Leg Basic Premise- the polygraph machine or instrument is
mechanically capable of making graphical records containing reliable information
regarding physiological changes.
72. Mythomania - It is the condition where there is an excessive or abnormal
propensity for lying and exaggerating.
73. Narcoanalysis/Narcosynthesis- This method of deception detection is
practically the same as that of administration of truth serum. The only difference
is the drug used. Psychiatric sodium amytal or sodium penthotal is administered
by the subject.
74. Normal Response- a tracing on the chart where in the subject answer in the
irrelevant question.
75. Occupational Liar- Is someone who has lied for years. This person is a practical
liar and lies when it has a higher pay-off than telling the truth.
76. Ordeal- a term of varying meaning closely related in the Medieval Latin “Dei
Indicum” meaning Miraculuos Decision.
77. Panic liar- One who lies in order to avoid the consequence of confession. He or
she is afraid of embarrassment to love ones and is a serious blow to his or her
ego.
78. Paper Rail Guide- which serves to secure or ensure the chart paper’s forward
movement without shaking.
79. Parasympathetic Nervous System- it is functionally antagonistic to the
sympathetic nervous system. Its role is to maintain the homeostasis of the body
which is necessary for normal functioning.

80. Pathological Liar- This person who cannot distinguish what is right from wrong.
These are those persons who are mentally sick.
81. Perjury- It is the act of lying or making verifiably false statements on a material
matter under oath or affirmation in a court of law or in any of various sworn
statements in writing.
82. Physiological Leg Basic Premise- among the physiological changes that may
be recorded and identified are those that automatically occur only following the
stimulation of specific nervous system components can be reliably diagnosed.
83. Pneumograph- It is designed to detect changes in respiration of the subject.
84. Poly- means many
85. Polygraph- refers to an instrument for recording changes in blood pressure,
respiration, pulse rate and skin resistance as sign or indication of emotional
disturbance especially of lying when questioned.
 48

86. Polygraphy- from the two Greek words “POLY” which means MANY or MORE,
and “GRAPHOS” which means writings.
87. Polygraphy- it is the scientific method of detecting deception with the use of a
polygraph contraption.
88. Post Test Interview- designed to obtain admission or confession of the subject.
89. Pre- Test Interview- administered by the polygraph examiner designed to
condition or prepare the subject for the actual polygraph test. Its duration
usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes. At this stage, the rights of the subject are
explained, his consent are obtained as well as personal data and the
determination whether the subject is mentally, physically and psychologically
prepared to undergo the polygraph test.
90. Psychological Leg Basic Premise- Under this premise, the specific nervous
system component whose stimulation can thus be diagnosed are so stimulated
by the involuntary and emotional processes of the individual who is continuously
attempting him to believe that exposure to deception is quite possible although
undesirable.
91. Psychological Stress Evaluator (PSE) - The voice of the subject is graphed
and recorded. In an inaudible wavelength.
92. Psychopathic Liar- This person has no conscience. He or she shows no regret
for his dishonest actions and no manifestation of guilt. This is the most difficult
type of liar because he is a good actor.
93. Pump bulb assembly which inflates air into the system, also known as air
pump it has a hose connecting the blood pressure cuff through which the blood
pressure changes and passed into the recording pen.
94. Reaction- it is an action in mental attitude evokes by external influence.
95. Reaction Tracing Segment- a segment within a tracing that shows
physiological evidence that the sympathetic subdivision of the autonomic
nervous system has become active following the stress area on the polygraph
chart, indicating a psychological return to the subject’s exhibited average
emotional level.
96. Red Lie- sometimes called misinformation is a lie in the form of information that
is seemingly valuable but is intended to destroy a political belief or ideology. Red
Lie is better known in politics as propaganda.
97. Relevant Question- a question formulate from information pertaining to the
object of the examination and pointed at determining the subject’s knowledge of
complicity in, or truthfulness or deception regarding the issue in question.
98. Relief Tracing Segment- a segment within the tracing that shows physiological
evidence that the parasympathetic subdivision of the autonomic nervous system
 49

has become active following the stress area on the polygraph chart, indicating a
physiological return to the subjects exhibited average emotional level.
99. Requesting Party - the person/s who asked for the services of the examiner to
help verify the truthfulness of a subject’s statement or testimony, he is usually
the investigator of the criminal case.

100. Resonance Control Unit is used for reducing or increasing the amount o air
pressure to reach the brass bellows (tambour) and thus reduce or increase the
amplitude of pen excursions.
101. Response- any activity or in division of previous activity of an organism or as
effector organ, or part of the organism resulting from stimulation.
102. Richard O. Arthur- he developed an improvised polygraph machine with two
galvanic skin resistance.
103. Rubber convoluted tube- is ten inches in length corrugated rubber attached
to the chest and abdominal area of the subject.
104. Rubber Roller- which pulls the paper out of the machine.
105. Sacrifice or DYAT Question- designed to uncover the subject’s attitude,
cooperation towards the test.
106. Secondary or Weak Relevant- deals with secondary element of the crime and
probe mostly on guilty knowledge and partial involvement.
107. Silent Answer Test- The subject is instructed to refrain from giving any audible
answer. The subject is told to listen to each test question and to answer only to
himself, silently.
108. Sir James Mackenzie a famous English heart specialist who first describe the
polygraph machine as the “ink polygraph”
109. Specific Response- any deviation from the normal tracing of a subject.
110. Sphygmomanometer- the part of the cardio component which indicates the air
pressure in the system in millimetres of mercury.
111. Sphygmomanometer which is utilized to indicate the amount of air pressure
inflated to the system.
112. Sticker- he made the first galvanograph for detecting deception based from the
work of his predecessor and introduced the method of detecting from the
galvanic impression on the chart tracing. He worked on the influence and
relation of the sweat glands to skin resistance.
113. Stimulus- a force of emotion reaching the organism and excite the deceptors. In
short is a force that arouses the organism of any part to activity.
114. Strong or Primary Relevant- having an intense and specific relationship to the
offense or problem being considered.
115. Subject- also known as examinee refers to a person undergoing a polygraph
examination or test.
 50

116. Sympathetic Nervous System- also called fight or flight mechanism, increases
alertness, stimulates tissue, and prepares the body for quick responses to
unusual situations.
117. Symptomatic Questions- a question that relates about the subject trust in the
examiner regarding confinement to the original issue under investigation.
118. Systolic Blood Pressure- the upward blood pressure as the apex of the curve
caused by the contraction of the heart, valves are open and blood is rushing into
the arteries.
119. The Primary Control Question- is based on known lie. It must concern about
events that transpired within three to five years period before case under
investigation occurred.
120. The Secondary Control Question- is more specific in nature and is based on
another experience or wrongdoing. This will enhance the opportunity for
responsiveness. It scope covers up to the present period.
121. Tournament Liar- One who loves to lie and is excited by the challenges of not
being detected. He views an interview as another contest and wants to win.
122. Trial by ordeal- is a judicial practice by which the guilt or innocence of the
accused is determined by subjecting them to a painful task.
123. U.S vs. Frye- known to be the first case in Lie Detection.
124. U.S vs. Picciononna- discards the Frye as a rule, and sets procedure and limits
on polygraph test admissibility.
125. University of Utah researchers- introduced computer assisted polygraph
techniques in the early 1980’s, and they remain at the forefront of developments
in instrumentation and analytic methods for computerized polygraph system.
126. Vent which provides the means by which air in the system can be released.
127. Veraguth- he was the first one to use the term “psycho galvanic reflex”. He
believes that that the electrical phenomenon is due to the activity of sweat
glands.
128. Vittorio Benussi- discovered a method for calculating the quotient of the
inhalation to exhalation as means of verifying the truth and detecting deception
of the subject.
129. William Moulton Marston- the self proclaimed “father of the polygraph”
conducted more numerous tests for detecting deception utilizing the changes of
systolic deception and develops his own method of reading systolic blood
pressure.
130. Word Association Technique- A list of word will be recited to the subject one
by one, after each word the subject should say the first word that comes in his
mind.
References:

Criminalistics; ISBN 971- 045947; Atty. Juan L. Agas, Dean Felipe S. Bautista, Dean
Ricarado M. Guevara, Dean Ma.
Paulina Corazon S. Tatoy

Polygraphy Lie Detection; ISBN 978- 971- 0558- 18- 3; Col. William A. REvisa, (RET),
Prof. Joner C. Villaluz

Truth and Deception second edition; ISBN 0- 683- 07224- 2

Legal Medicine; Pedro P. Solis, 1987

The Essentials of Polygraphy; Mary Jane Q. Adra Rcr., MSCrim, Dr Danilo Lago
Tancangco, 2013

Prof. Joner C. Villaluz Rcrim. Ph.d, Col. William A. Revisa (RET) Ph.d, Carlito Panganoron,
Jr Ph.d 2014

Polygraphy Lie Detection and Interrogation; Bryan T. Yang & Maria Cristina R. Landig,
2013

Compiled By:

Prof. Charmaine D. Erang, MCJE

 Module
in
LIE DETECTION TECHNIQUES

Forensic Science
15%

1. Discuss the methods of detecting deception, and factors affecting accuracy of

polygraph examination.

2. Distinguish the phases of polygraph examination, components of polygraph, chart

markings, and rules in chart interpretation.

3. Explain test questions in polygraph examination (relevant, irrelevant and control).