NCJ Number
195832
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 52 Issue: 4 Dated: July/August 2002 Pages: 463-474
Date Published
2002
Length
12 pages
Annotation
Over a period of 11 years, more than 500 people participated in a series of blind tests to determine whether the principles of graphology (scientific examination of handwriting) were reliable.
Abstract
A total of 506 volunteers donated written material to create several blind tests to determine whether graphology is accurate and reliable. The participants were instructed to write a standard paragraph on a piece of paper using their normal handwriting style. Six graphologists were consulted. Four from various parts of the country had over 70 years of combined experience. Two master graphoanalysts (both from the midwest) had a combined total of over 25 years of experience. A written report was obtained from the analysts, and the results were evaluated according to five criteria: consistency, self-evaluation, peer evaluation, clinical evaluation, and comparison. The results of these tests showed absolutely no correlation between a person's handwriting and his/her personality traits. The research further demonstrated that the principles that relate to graphology are neither accurate nor consistent; they are, therefore, unreliable. 4 tables and an 11-item bibliography