NCJ Number
147931
Journal
Polygraph Volume: 22 Issue: 4 Dated: (1993) Pages: 313-322
Date Published
1993
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the rationale and options for formulating polygraph examination conclusions other than the three typically given, i.e., deception indicated, no deception indicated, or inconclusive.
Abstract
The polygraph technique compares psychophysiological responses to various questions whose content is designed to show whether the examinee has an emotional focus on specific crime-related issues. An examiner infers truth or deception from measured responses to the various questions. Deception on matters related to the crime at issue, however, may not be the primary cause of the measured psychophysiological responses to relevant questions. To approach an accurate interpretation of the polygraph charts, the examiner should analyze auxiliary information, such as investigative case facts, the subject's verbal and nonverbal behavior, or admissions elicited from the subject following an examination. The use of auxiliary information distinguishes between an examiner who merely reads charts and one who renders the most accurate opinion possible. Consideration of auxiliary information in the polygraph report is called a "global evaluation." This article outlines six possible alternative opinions that might be rendered based on certain findings in a global evaluation. Case examples for each opinion are provided. 8 references