POLYGRAPHY

THE SCIENCE OF LIE DETECTION

Polygraph Examination- is generally used as an
investigative aid/technical aid in the investigative
p roc e s s . I n l aw e n forc e me n t, p ol yg rap h i s
significant because it is considered as one among
the most effective way of establishing the truth.
 WHAT IS POLYGRAPH?

POLYG R A PHY- i s de f in e d as th e s c i e n ti f ic
detec ti on of dec epti on th rou gh th e u s e of
polygraph machine.
POLYGRAPH- is a device or instrument for the
recordings of chart in blood pressure, pulse beat,
r e s p i rati o n an d g al v an i c - s k i n r e f le x o r, as
indicative of emotional excitement especially of
lying, when questioned
Physiology – science that treats the living
organism’s functions and its parts and the
physical and chemical factors and
processes involved.
Psychophysiology – science that combines
the knowledge in psychology and
physiology to detect deception.
Forensic Psychophysiology – deals with the
relationship and application of
psychophysiology to legal matters.
ORIGIN OF THE WORD POLYGRAPH

It is derived from two GREEK words:

“POLY” – meaning many or more

“ GRAPHOS” – meaning writings or chart
 POLYGRAPH TERMINOLOGIES

Deception – is an art of deceiving or misleading

usually by lying.
Lying – is the uttering or conveying falsehood
creating a false or misleading impression with
the intention of affecting wrongfulness of the
acts, opinion and affection of another.
Detection – is the ar t of dis covering the
existence, presence of fact of something hidden
or obscure.
 Methods of DETECTION

It is based on the fact that involuntary bodily

changes accompany detection, the apparent
e ffe c ts ob s e r v e d , b e i n g th e p h ys i ol og i c al
changes accompanying the emotion of fear –
primarily fear of consequences or exposure.
Emotion – is derived from the word “emovere”
meaning to stir up, agitate or move. It is agitation,
disturbance or tumultuous physical or social
movement constituting a departure from the
usual state of the orgasm as a loose strong
feeling, an impulse to avert action and internal
changes in respiration, circulation and glandular
action.
Fear – is the emotional response to specif ic
dangers that appear to be potentially beyond
person’s defensive powers. The fear of detection
every time we lie causes physiological changes
in our body, these changes are the one recorded
by the polygraph machine and diagnosed by the
Stimulus – any force that arouses the organism
or any of these parts to activity. In polygraph
examination, stimuli are presented to subject in
the form of question.
Reaction – is defined as any activity aroused in
an organism the stimulus. It is an action or
mental attitude evoked by an external influence.
Response – is any activity of a previous activity
of an organism or of an affect or (muscles of
glands) organs or part of the organism resulting
from the stimulation.
Trial by Ordeal
 METHODS OF DETECTING
DECEPTION
Ancient Method – this practice utilized religious
and superstitious belief as the vehicle for the
established truth. It is done by combat or torture
and ordeals and was not based in any
understanding of the physiological principles
underlying deception.
EARLY METHODS:
1. Red Hot Iron Ordeal – practiced on the hill tribe
of Rajhmal in North Bengal. An accused tongue is
placed to a red hot iron 9 times, unless burned
sooner, if burned he/she is put to death.
2. Ordeal by the Balance – scale of balance is
used where the accused is place on the other end
while the counterbalance is made, if lighter than
before the accused is acquitted.
3. Boiling Water Ordeal – common in Africa. The
subject will be asked to plunge their right arm
into the boiling water up to the elbow and step on
the other side of the f ire, done without murmur,
they will be told to return the next day, those who
have blisters is pronounced guilty.
4. Ordeal by Rice Chewing – practice by Indians, a
ki n d of r i c e c al l ed “Sath ee,” prepared wi th
incantations, the accused eats the rice then spits
upon an eyeful leaf, if the saliva is mixed with
B l ood or th e c or n e r of h i s m ou th s w e l l or
trembles, he is declared liar.
5. Ordeal of the Red Water – ordeal of the sassy
bark or red water was used where the accused is
made to fast for twelve hours then swallows a
small amount of rice until it absorbed the dark
colored water, the water is emetic. If the accused
vomits all the rice, then he is innocent, if not
guilty.
6. Combination of Drinks and Food Ordeal –
practiced in West Afrcia, the accused is made to
fast for 12 hours and given small amount of rice
followed by black colored water, if the mixture is
vomited, innocent, if not guilty.
7. Trial by Combat – a f ight between the accuser
and the accused, whoever lost the battle will be
adjudged guilty, practiced in India, the accuser
can hire somebody or much bigger one to f ight
for him. It became a legal ordeal in England
during the time of King Henry III.
8. Trial by Torture – the accused was put to into
severe physical test. If he can endure it, he will be
considered innocent.
9. Drinking Ordeal – the accused is given some
mixture to drink by a priest – if innocent; no harm
befalls him, but if guilty, will die, practiced in
Nigeria and India.
10. Trial by Eucharist – performed by clergy, and
done with pomp and ceremony, a certain food will
be given to the accused to eat, if guilty he/she
wi l l di e, bu t i f i n n oc en t, An gel G abr i el wi l l
descend from heaven and will allow the food to
be swallowed.
11. Ordeal by Heat and Fire – the accused was
compelled to walk bare footed through the f ire, if
he/she remains unhurt then he is innocent.
12. Donkey’s Tail Ordeal – a donkey was placed in
one room alone, and to be observed, if it cries as
judge of the guilty of crimes, then the accused is
guilty.
 OBSERVATION METHOD

Several symptomatic reactions are observable

from lying persons. External manifestations are
not conclusive to established guilt or innocence,
as highly nervous may exhibit the same reaction
s, while those who learned to control the muscle
of their face and body may present a poker face
in an attitudinal innocence.
OBSERVATION METHOD
 FACIAL EXPRESSION THAT
SUGGEST DECEPTION
1. Paling, blushing or profuse sweating on the
forehead, eyebrows or chin;
2. Dilation of the eyes, protrusion of the eyeball,
elevation of the upper eyelids;
3. Twitching at the corner of the lips;
4. Excessive winking, movements of the vein at
the dimple; and
5. Quivering of the nostrils
 POSTURAL REACTIONS THAT
SUGGESTS DECEPTION
1. Inability to look the interrogator straight in the
eyes;
2. Excessive activity of the Adams apple;
3. Dryness of the mouth, loud clacking can be
heard every time he speaks;
4. F i d g e t i n g w i t h t h e f in g e r s , t a p p i n g o r
drumming on the chair;
5. Swinging of one leg over the other;
6. Change in the tone of the voice or monotone;
7. Pulsation of the carotid artery in the neck;
8. Exaggerated coldness, nervousness and
forced laughter;
9. Incoherence, trembling and sweating
 OTHER METHODS OF DETECTING
DECEPTION
HYPNOTISM – begun by Mesmer in 1778 by
experiments on the use of electromagnetic
effects.
WORD ASSOCI ATION TEST – developed by
Francis Galton in 1870 and later modif ie d by
Mussteburg Crosland, Luria and Dr. Jung.
TRUTH SERUM – this method was started by Dr.
E. M. House of Ferries, Texas in 1922. It utilize a
chemical called, Sodium Pentothal.
NARCO-ANALYSIS OR NARCO-SYNTHESIS –
almost as the same as truth serum ,but it uses
a different type of drug, called Sodium Amytal, it
is injected to the subject and questioning begin
wh en th e effec ts s tar ts to s h ow. Th e dr u g
depress the inhibitory mechanism of the brain
and subjects talks freely.
POLYGRAPH TECHNIQUE – detecting deception
with the aid of polygraph machine is based on the
theory that a conscious mental effort of a normal
person to deceived cause physical changes that
can be recorded and diagnosed.
 Word Association Test
● This method is done by giving the subject a
long list of carefully selected stimulus words or
objects with other pictures combined with other
irrelevant words, objects or pictures with the
instruction to respond with the very f irst word
that may come to subject’s mind. Dr. Jung was
able to observe how the thinking reactions were
linked into emotional habit of his subject. The
theory behind this, one word or idea is reflective
of another word or idea and expression of their
association forms a meaningful picture.
 Voice stress analysis

Voice stress analysis (VSA) and computer voice stress
analysis (CVSA) are collectively a pseudoscientif ic
technology that aims to infer deception from stress
measured in the voice. The CVSA records the human
voice using a microphone, and the technology is based
on the tenet that the non-verbal, low-frequency content
of the voice conveys information about the physiological
and psychological state of the speaker. Typically utilized
i n i nv e sti g ati v e se tti ng s, the te c hnol og y ai m s to
differentiate between stressed and non-stressed outputs
in response to stimuli (e.g., questions posed), with high
stress seen as an indication of deception.[1](Wikipedia)
Voice Stress Analysis
 Scientific Findings
The use of voice stress analysis (VSA) for the detection of deception is
controversial. Discussions about the application of VSA have focused on
whether this technology can indeed reliably detect stress, and, if so, whether
deception can be inferred from this stress.[2] Critics have argued that—even if
stress could reliably be measured from the voice—this would be highly similar
to measuring stress with the polygraph, for example, and that all critiques
centered on polygraph testing apply to VSA as well.[3] A 2002 review of the
state of the art conducted for the United States Department of Justice found
several technical challenges to the technology, including the same problem of
determining deception.[4] When reviewing the literature on the effectiveness of
VSA in 2003, the National Research Council concluded, "Overall, this research
and the few controlled tests conducted over the past decade offer little or no
scientif ic basis for the use of the computer voice stress analyzer or similar
voice measurement instruments".[1]:168 A 2013 paper published in Proceedings
of Meetings on Acoustics reviewed the "scientif ic implausibility" of its
principles and "ungrounded claims of the aggressive propaganda from sellers
of voice stress analysis gadgets".[5][6]
 Notable Cases
● Confession made following a voice stress examination was
allowed to be used as evidence in a Wisconsin case in 2014.[7]
● In the case of the 1998 murder of 12-year-old Stephanie Crowe,
confessions were made while three suspects were undergoing VS
A, which were later found to be false by a judge. In 2005 the
manufacturer of the VSA equipment later settled a lawsuit that
alle ge d that it was liable fo r the harm the thre e suspe c ts
suffered.[8]
● In a similar 2000 case in Washington state, Donovan Allen falsely
confessed to killing his mother after failing a VSA test. He was
acquitted 15 years later based on exonerating DNA evidence.[9]
● George Zimmerman was given a VSA after he fatally shot Florida
teenager Trayvon Martin in Sanford, Florida in 2012.[10]
 IRIS EXAMINATION
What happens when you lie?
● Your brain has to work harder when you lie. The greater the
consequences of the lie, the greater the work load (cognitive
load). This affects the eyes, whether you know it or not.
EyeDetect measures changes in pupil diameter, eye movement,
blinks, fixations and other things.
What happens during a test?
● During a test, participants answer True/False questions on a
computer. A high speed camera records eye behaviors and
movements.
● When the test is finished, responses to questions and eye
measurements are uploaded to a web server for analysis and
immediate scoring. Participants are categorized as truthful or
deceptive.
 ● What is the other name of the
Polygraph?

It is also called “Truth Verifier”,

since statistics show that most
of the instances the instrument
verifies an innocent person’s
truthfulness.
What are the concepts of Polygraph
Examination?
1. Used to test an individual for the purpose of
detecting deception or verifying his/her
statements.
2. It is done by recording identifiable
physiological reactions of the subject, such as
blood pressure and pulse rate, respiration and
skin resistance.
3. The effectiveness of polygraph is based on the
theory that, a conscious mental effort on the
part of a normal person to deceive causes
involuntary physiological changes that are
in effect a body’s reaction to an imminent danger
to its well-being.
 Objectives of Polygraph
Examination
1. Obtain additional investigative leads to the
facts of the case.
2. Ascertain if a person is telling the truth.
3. Locate the fruits or tools of the crime and
whereabouts of wanted person.
4. Identify the other person involved.
5. Obtain valuable information from reluctant
witnesses, and;
6. Eliminate the innocent suspects.
LIE – is any of the following:
Untruthful statement, falsehood, anything that
deceives or creates false impression, untrue
statements especially with intent to deceived or
to give an erroneous or misleading impression.
Synonymous to deceit, deception, fabrication,
falsehood and untruth.
WHY LIE?
The most common reason why people lie is
the fear of detection that one has committed
something undesirable or would like to preserve
something valuable.
 KINDS OF LIE
White Lie – intended to protect or maintain
harmonious relationship.
Pathological Lie – made by a person who can’t
distinguish right from wrong.
R e d L i e – l i e t h a t p r o v e to d e s t r o y o t h e r
ideologies by means of propaganda and brain
washing.
Bl ac k Li e – ac c ompan i es preten s i on s an d
hypocrisies, intriguing to cause dishonor or
discredit one’s image.
Malicious Lie – intended to mislead or obstruct
justice.Example, false testimony of witness.
 OTHER KINDS OF LIES
1. F ab r i c ati o n – a l i e to l d w h e n s o m e o n e
submits a statement as truth, without knowing
for certain whether or not it actually is true.
2. Bold Faced Lie – is one which is told when
obvious to all concerned that it is a lie.
3. Lying by Omission – it is done by omitting an
important fact, deliberately leaving another
person with a misconception.
4. Lie to Children – a type of lie that tend to make
an adult person acceptable to children by
telling them something untrue.
5. Noble Lie – one that can caused trouble if
discovered, but offers benef it to liars, and assist
i n an ord e r l y s oc i e ty, th e re for p ote n ti al l y
beneficial to others.
6. Emergency Lie – is a strategic lie when the
truth may not be told because it may harm a third
party.
7. Perjury – act of lying or making verif iably false
statements on a material matter under oath or
af fir mation in a court of law, or in any various
sworn statements in writing.
8. Bluf fin g – pretending to have a capability or
intention which does not actually possess.
9. Jocose Lie – are those which are meant as a
joke, and are usually understood as such by all
present parties.
10. Contextual Lies – one that can state part of
the truth out of context, knowing that without
complete information.
11. Promotion Lie – advertisement often contain
statements which are incredible such as “ we are
always happy to give refund” or exaggerated
prediction such as “ you will our new product”.
 TYPES OF LIARS
Panic Liars – one who lies in order to avoid the
consequences of a confession, they are afraid of
embarrassment and it is a serious blow to their
ego.
Occupational Liars – are practical liars and lies
when it has a higher “pay off” than telling the
truth
Tournament Liars – are those who love to lie and
are excited by the challenge of not being detected
Psychopathic liars – the most dif fic ult type, no
conscience and shows no regret for dishonesty
and manifestation of guilt.
Ethnological Liars – are those who are taught not
be a “squealer”, used by underworld gang for their
m e m b e r n o t to r e v e a l a n y s e c r e t o f t h e i r
organization.
Path ological Liars – are th os e wh o cannot
distinguish right from wrong due to their sick
mind. They are insane.
Black Liars – are those who always pretends
what he is and what he thinks of himself.
 HISTORY OF POLYGRAPH
Sir J ames Mackenzie – an Englis h h ear t
specialist who developed the “Ink Polygraph” in
1908. His invention however was not for lie
detection but rather for medical research.
 Cesare Lombroso M.D.
Firs t to us ed the plethys mograph and
sphygmomanometer in interrogation of suspects,
used HYDROSSHYGMOGRAPH for detecting
d e c e p ti o n . T h e f ir s t p e r s o n to u ti l i z e d an
instrument to detect lie through blood pressure.
 Vittorio Benussi
He conducted experiments using pneumograph
for the detection of deception. He noted that
inspiration and expiration ratio changed during
de c e p ti on . H e c on s i de re d th e R e s p i rati on
changes as symptoms of deception.
 HAROLD E. BURTT

● In 1918 confirmed the result by

Benussi that deceit could be
detected in patterns of respiratory
inhibition.
 John A. Larson
C on s tr u c te d th e i n s tr u m e n t c ap ab l e of
continuously recording all the phenomena such
as blood pressure and pulse and respiration in
1921, also f irst to used more than one recording
to detect deception.
 William Moulton Marston
Used SPHYGMOMANOMETER attach to blood
pressure. He recorded the respiration noted
through time when the subject’s response
verbally. He also used the GALVANOMETER to
record the skin resistance changes and a
gripping device to record tension.
 Leonarde Keeler
In 1926, the Polygraph included in addition to
u n i ts for re c ordi n g b l ood p re s s u re , p u l s e ,
r e s p i r a t i o n a n d g a l v a n i c s k i n r e f le x o r
electrodermal response known as GSR. He also
introduced the card test use for control purposes.
 Leonarde Keeler is considered
the Father of POLYGRAPH
 John E. Reid
He devised the Reid Polygraph in 1945, and
i n tr o d u c e d a c o m p l e te r e v i s e d p o l yg rap h
technique, the most signif ic ant feature was the
utilization of control question known as the Reid
Control Question Technique.
 Polygraph in the Philippines
Polygraph was f ir st introduced in 1945 by the
Crime Laboratory of the Military Police. It also
sent some personalities in the U.S. to be trained
in Polygraph. Among them are the following:

Mr. Jose Navarro and Conrado Dumlao

Mr. Agustin Patricio and Manuel C. Roura – NBI
Personnel that was trained were Ernesto Lucena
and Ms. Tessie Logan with Artemio Panganiban
 Theory of Polygraph Examination
When a mentally normal person tells a lie,
physiological changes occur within his/her body
that could be recorded by the instrument and
evaluated by the examiner.
CARDINAL RULE OF THE POLYGRAPH EXAMINER
“ Always Objectivity over Subjectivity”
OBJECTIVE OF POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION
TO O BTA I N T H E S U B J ECT A D M I S S I O N O R
CONFESSION OF THE OFFENSE COMMITTED.
 The Polygraph Instrument
The basis of the polygraph examination is the
fact the guilt feelings induces by lying, produces
physiological changes in the liar. The polygraph is
simply a combination of the four major
components of a present-day typical polygraph.
PSYCHOLOGY OF THE POLYGRAPH TEST
A psychological phenomenon occur within the
mind and body of the subject at a time of test
requires acute and constant study. Test should
be based on fairness, impartiality and objectivity
on chart interpretation. It needs a comprehensive
understanding in the human body when lying.
 What is the Ultimate Objective of Conducting
Polygraph Examination ?

T h e U l ti m ate O b j e c ti v e s ar e to o b tai n th e
following:
Admission – is a statement of fact by the accuse
d, which do not directly involve acknowledgment
of guilt in committing or having participated in the
commission of an offense.
Confession – is a declaration made by a person
voluntarily, stating or acknowledging that has
committed in the commission of a crime.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=zB_TOjJ404A
Biological and Psychological Needs
Humans must meet a variety of biological needs.
These are food, exercise, sex and safety. When
this needs are not meet, muscular tension and
emotion will develop. Fear ,anger and pain may
appear. Fear tends to protect a person by leading
to withdrawal from dangerous situations, anger
may lead to attack on the obstacle and pain
protects the body from physical harm. Emotional
arousal increases as tension of the individual.
Man, also has psychological needs, they are
security, adequacy, love, social approval(status),
self esteem and reality testing.
Reality testing is the acquiring of practical
knowledge and skills necessary for achieving
independence and effective adjustment. When
these psychological needs are not meet, tension
and emotion likewise aroused.
PSYCHOLOGY OF A LYING PERSON
(Additional Factors)
The most important aspect of polygraph testing
is the understanding of the psychological theory
of polygraph examination. The lying person fears
detection, causing physiological changes inside
the body, and this changes is recorded by the
polygraph instrument and diagnosed by the
examiner. The fear reaction causes changes in
the breathing, rate and volume, changes in the
electrical resistance of the skin and changes in
the heart rate and blood pressure.
 THE POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION

The actual conduct of a polygraph examination is

a complex activity. It needs preparation of the
examiner, pretest interview, question formulation
and chart interpretation. The polygraph examiner
must see to it that the subject should be properly
prepared for the test. Unprepared examiner may
create tension to the subject who is innocent and
might react as guilty because of the mistakes of
the examiner.
 OBJECTIVES AND CONCEPTS
T h e p ol yg rap h i s u s e d to te s t or qu e s ti on
indiv iduals for the purpos e of detecting
deception or verifying the truthfulness of the
s tatemen ts th rou gh v i s u al per man en t an d
s i m u l t a n e o u s r e c o r d i n g o f a p e r s o n ’s
cardiovascular and respiratory pattern as a
minimum instruments or requirement, changes in
g a l v a n i c s k i n r e f le x a l s o t h e s u b j e c t o f
verif ication. Polygraph instrument only measures
cer tain identif ia ble physical reaction in the
res piration, blood pres s ure, puls e rate and
g a l v a n i c s k i n r e f le x , m i x e d w i t h r e l i a b l e
questioning technique for diagnosing deception.
QUESTION FORMULATION AND TEST
CONSTRUCTION
The utilization of proper testing techniques and
the formulation of test questions is an extremely
important part of the polygraph examination. The
psychological control of the examination is to
great extent maintained by the proper
methodology employed in the question
formulation.
RELEVANT AND IRRELEVANT TEST

The methodology employed by Larson and Keeler

in 1942 was the relevant-irrelevant test. It is
based on the theory that “ the guilty react only to
relevant questions and the innocent exhibit no
reactions”. The technique however, failed to
account for guilt reactors, general nervous
tension, strong outside issues and non-reactors.
 THE PEAK AND TENSION TEST

This type of test is used in instance where the

subject has not yet informed on the
investigations or other sources of important
details of crime. This test is called the “peak and
tension test”. The theory of the peak of the
tension test is that one or more pertinent pieces
of information exist which are only known to the
v i c ti m, th e i n v es ti gator an d th e pol ygraph
examiner and the guilty of the offense.
 FOUR MAJOR COMPONENTS OF
POLYGRAPH, PLACEMENT AND
ATTACHMENT
PNEUMOGRAPH

a. A rubberized corrugated tube about seven inches in length

fastened around the subject’s chest and abdomen.
b. This occupies the two upper pens of the instrument which
records the thoracic and abdominal breathing patterns of
respiration.
c. The inhalation/exhalation of the subject cause the tubes to
expand and contract, thereby reflecting the change through
bellows to the pen into the chart.
 CARDIOSPHYGMOGRAPH
The blood pressure cuff containing a rubber
bladder that is wrapped around one of the subject
arms in such a way as to ensure that the rubber
portion of the cuff is placed over the brachial
artery of the right arm for more satisfactory
recordings.
This is the fourth and the bottom pen of the
instrument. The polygraphist inf lates the bladder
with a hand pump to put air into the system,
which recorded in a sphygmomanometer in
millimeter of mercury ( generally 60 to 80 mm).
 GALVANOGRAPH
A set of electrodes attached to the index
f inger and to the ring f inger of the left hand or the
palmer or dorsal surfaces of the subject’s hand.
This is the longest and the third pen of the
instrument.
GALVANOGRAPH

The electrodes used for obtaining the recording

of the GSR or electro dermal responses, are
fastened to the hand or f in gers by means of the
passage of an imperceptible amount of electrical
current through the hand or f in gers bearing the
attac h e d e l e c tr o d e s , a g al v an o m e te r u n i t
provides recording of the variation in the f low of
the electrical current.
 KYMOGRAPH
This is the chart drive recording unit of the
instrument. It has a synchronized motor that
drives the charts at the rate of six inches per
minute.
Its speed is constant and is vital because the
vertical lines which are spaced either at one inch
interval, represents f iv e or ten seconds interval
on the chart. This provides the polygraphist with
a means of determining pulse rate and question
spacing.
 Tripod Foundations of Polygraph Technique :

The Mechanical Basic Premise – the polygraph machine is

mechanically capable of making graphical records of reliable information
regarding physiological changes.

Th e Ph ys i ol ogi c al Bas i c Premi s e – am ong t he

physiological change s t hat m ay be re corde d and ide nt if ie d are t hose
automatically occur after stimulation of specific nervous system.

The Psychological Basic Premise – involuntary mental and

e m ot ional proce sse s of t he indiv idual who is consciously at t e m pt ing
concealment of deception.
 Physiological Changes as Basis of Detecting
Deception:

1. Blood Pressure and Heart Beat Frequency – increase in BP

and Pulse Rate following relevant questions and suppression of breathing
are the criteria of deception.

2. Breathing as a means of Detecting deception – it is

consists of two steps :

Inspiration – caused by the contraction of the diaphragm and expansion

of the chest cavity.

Expiration – caused by the relaxation of the diaphragm and contraction of

the chest cavity.

3.. Electrodermal Response – the most popular name for the

human body phenomenon in which the body, mainly the skin, changes
resistance electrically.
 Is the Polygraph Technique accurate ?

It indicates that when a specif ic single issue polygraph exam, conducted

by a qualif ie d, trained and experienced polygraph examiner, is properly
administered the accuracy rate is between 95% to 98%. this percentage is
still higher than other forms of evidence.

Factors that affects the accuracy of the Polygraph results:

1. the instrument

2. the condition of the subject

3. the condition of the examination room

4. qualification and skills of the examiner

 Factors that affects the accuracy of the Polygraph results:

1. the instrument

2. the subject's condition

3. the condition of the examination room

4. the qualification and skills of the examiner

15% of errors in lie detection test come from following

reasons.
1. Nervousness or extreme emotional tension experienced by a subject
who is telling the truth.

2. Physiological abnormalities

3. Mental abnormalities

4. Unresponsiveness in a lying subject or guilty

5. Attempt to beat the machine by controlling breathing or mascular

flexing.

.6. Unobserved application of muscular pressure that produces

ambiguities and misleading blood pressure tracing.
 Limitations of Polygraph Technique:
1. it is invaluable investigative aid, but never a substitute for investigation.

2. it is not a lie detector but only a scientific diagnostic instrument.

3. it does not determine facts, it record responses to that which the

subject knows to be true.

4. it is only as accurate as the examiner is competent.

5. the test will not be given until enough facts have been established to
permit the examiner to prepare a complete set of suitable questions.

6. the test will not be given without the voluntary consent of the subject.

7. no indication will be given to any person or placed in any report that a

person will be considered guilty because he refused to take the test.

8. a test will not be given until the accusations have been explained with
the subject.

9. no attempt to use Polygraph for mental or physical evaluation of any

person.

10. no examination will be conducted on unfit subject.

• Lord’s Prayer, Hail Mary and Glory
be

• Holy Spirit Prayer of Saint Augustine

Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit,

That my thoughts may all be holy.

Act in me, O Holy Spirit,

That my work, too, may be holy.

Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit,

That I love but what is holy.

Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit,

To defend all that is holy.

Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit,

That I always may be holy.
 Barriers to the Polygraph Examination;

There are instances where it is impossible to make an analysis of

polygraph tests because of the following;

1. Pathological Liar ( a person who cannot determine right and wrong)

2. Mental cases

3. Persons under the influence of intoxicating liquor

4. Narcotics related cases

5. Various heart and other organic troubles

Computerized Polygraph
Monolog Polygraph Models
Attachment of Computerized
Polygraph Instrument
 VIDEO OF POLYGRAPH
ATTACHMENT
● https://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=KE4ZT2WlL6k
● https://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=JJMrwYiE9ko
Of six (6)inches to twelve (12)inches per minute and its speed constant is
vital because the vertical lines, which spaced either at the one -half of an
inch interval, represents five or ten seconds interval on the chart.

● Detachable Parts of a Polygraph Instrument;

 Built Accessories of Polygraph Machine

● Kymograph- or chart driving mechanism.

● Pen and Inking System
● Pneumograph Section
● Cardio Section
● Galvanograph Section
Considerations for an Effective Polygraph Testing

● The Instrument
● The Examiner
● The Subject
● The Examination Room
● Other Considerations
● The usual duration of a Polygraph testing normally takes from 1 to 3
hours, depending on the purpose of the examination, subject's attitude
and other factors. The actual questioning aspect of the examination
my be repeated three to four times and longer than a few minutes for
each questions.
 Procedures (Phases) followed in the Polygraph
Technique

● Phase I: Preliminary Preparations: This stage is the

initial interview with the handling the case or person requesting it, it
involves the victim, the complainant and witnesses.

● Phase II: The Pre-Test Interview: This stage o f

interview of the subject. It is aimed to prepare or condition the subject
for the test.

● Phase III: The Examination Proper: After the pre-test

interview, the examiner proceed to the placement or attachment of
P o l yg ra p h s e n s o rs . F i r s t i s t h e P n e u m o g ra p h , t h e n by t h e
Cardiosphygmograph, and the Galvanograph sensors.

● Phase IV: The Post-Test Interview: Inc ludes all

considerations that transpire during the examination.
 Evaluation of Polygraph Test Result

● The basic measurement of an effective polygraph evaluation and analysis of

result comes from the factors affecting the instrument used, level of training
and skill of the examiner, condition of the subject, condition of the
examination room and the actual examination process.

● Types of Test Questions and how it is constructed:

● the polygraph test consists of asking the subject/person through a list
of prepared questions in a planned sequence comprising of not more
than twelve. At least 3 test charts are taken, each lasting not more
than four (4) minutes with a rest interval of f ive(5) to ten(10) minutes
between charts.

● Two General types of Questions:

● 1.General Question Test – the most commonly applied. (GQT)

● 2. Peak-of-Tension Test – used as supplementary test. (PTT)

 Five (5) set of Test that maybe applied during
Polygraph process

● Test I: General Questions Test (GQT)

● Test II: Number Test (Psychological Test)
● Test III: Spot Responder
● Test IV: Mix Question
● Test V: Silence Answer Test (SAT)
● The GQT consists of series of Relevant and Irrelevant Questions
asked in a plan order.
 Sample Set of General Test (GQT)
1. Have you ever been called by the name Pedro? (Irrelevant)
2. Is today Monday? (Irrelevant)

3. Do you have anything to do with the robbery at SM last night? (Weak

Relevant)

4. Are you over 20 years of age? (Irrelevant)

5. Were you one of those who robbed the SM last night? (Strong
Relevant)

6. Have you been involved in a robbery case this year? (Control Question-
Relevant)

7. Do you drink water? (Irrelevant)

8. Was a pair of gloves found at SM yours? (Evidence Connecting

Relevant)

9. Do you know of anyone involved in a robbery at SM last night?

(Knowledge Question-Relevant)
10. Have you ever been involved in any robbery in your entire life?

(Secondary Control-Relevant)

11. Have you deliberately lied to any question I have asked you ?

(Relevant-Check Question) (optional).

THE GENERAL RULES IN QUESTION
FORMULATION
● It must be simple and direct
● They must not involve legal terminology, such as rape, assault,
murder, killed etc.
● They must be answerable by yes or no only and should be as
simple as possible
● Their meaning must be clear and phrase in a language the
subject can easily understand
● They must not be in the form of accusation
● Questions must never contain opinion
● All questions must refer to one offense only
● They must not contain inferences to one’s religion, race or belief
 DIFFERENT TYPES OF QUESTIONS
Irrelevant Questions

The se q ue st i o ns a re fo rm ul a t e d w i t ho ut a ny spe c i f ic
relationship with the case under investigation. Its purpose is to
create subject’s physiological norm and to reduce the excitement
level created by the relevant question, the examiner usually refer
to dates, names of place, subject’s position, etc.
Relevant Questions
These are the primary or key questions asked by the examiner
in order to resolve a specif ic subject matter. Its purpose is to
detect deception, as a result of this type of question in the
p o l yg ra p h e x a m i n a t i o n v i a b e t w e e n c h a r t p r o b i n g a n d
interrogation.
Sacrifice or DYAT Questions

This is designed to absorb the responses generally generated

by the introduction of the f irst relevant in the series. It reveals the
subject’s norm plus stimulus and excitement level. Construction
of this question is regarding the matter under investigation, as “Do
you intent to answer truthfully all the questions about them”.
Example: Regarding the stolen wristwatch, do you intend to truthfully answer
each question about that?

Knowledge Questions
This is the question designed to prove whether the subject
possess information regarding the identity of the offender, or as to
the location of the evidence or other secondary elements of the
facts of the case under investigation. The knowledge question is
framed “Do you know who c ommitted the offense,” in the
formulation of the question and review.
Ex.: “Do you know for sure who stole the wristwatch of Hazel?”
Evidence Connecting Questions
This is designed to stimulate the guilty subject and focus his
attention on the probability of incriminating proof that would tend
to establish his guilt. In making questions the examiner must
se c ure i nfo rm a t i o n fro m t he i nv e st i ga t o r a s t o w he t he r
f ingerprints, footprints, tools or other evidences were collected
from the crime scene. The examiners proceeds in asking the
question, “ Was the evidence found in crime scene yours?”
Ex.: Were the footprints outside the house of Hazel’s yours?
Control Question (Probable Lie)
This is a question designed to produce a response in the
innocent subject and serves as a basis for evaluating the subject’s
perceptual set. Control questions would either be a Primary or
Secondary. The Primary Control question-is based on known lie. It
must concern about events that transpired within three to f iv e
years period before the case under investigation (present)
occurred,
Ex.: of the question is “before reaching the age of 20, have you ever stolen anything”
The secondary control question is of more specific in nature and
is based upon another experience or wrong doing which will
enhance the opportunity for responsiveness. Its scope covers up
to the present period.
The question of responsiveness must not be related to the case
under investigation;
Ex.: “Have you ever committed any crime in your community or have you ever stolen
anything”.

Symptomatic Questions
These questions are designed to detect and evaluate the
presence of the outside issue factor is neither a case which he is
involved, but is not a subject matter under investigation.
Ex.: “Are you now convinced that I will not ask you any questions aside from those
which we have reviewed? Or “Are you afraid that I will ask you about something else
which I told you I would not?
SKY Questions
These three questions grouped together by Backster
conf irm the previous charts and may detect indirect involvement
or guilty knowledge. The “S” stands for suspect; the “K” stands for
know; and “Y” stands for you. The “Y” question is the same as the
strong relevant question.
Ex.: Do you suspect anyone in particular of stealing Hazel’s wristwatch?

Do you know for sure who stole Hazel’s wristwatch?

Did you steal Hazel’s wristwatch?

 “WHAT TAKES PLACE ON A POLYGRAPH
CHART DURING THE TEST?”
During the test, the examiner asks questions, this
question becomes verbal stimulus, and the message is
received by the ear and transmitted to the brain.
The brain analyses the questions, if the question is not a
threat to the well being of the subject the thought central
center discards it and the body continue to function
normally. However, when the question is important to
the subject, physiological chain reaction takes place
within his/her body, which is recorded by the polygraph
instrument and can be evaluated by the polygraph
examiner.
 What are the Factors that Affects
the Accuracy of Polygraph Results

Generally, the following are factors affecting

polygraph examination accuracy:
1. The Instrument
2. The Condition of the subject
3. The Condition of the examination room
4. The qualification and skills of the examiner
 What are the Necessary
Considerations for an Effective
Polygraph Testing
1. The Instrument
Polygraph examination us es the polygraph
instrument as the device used for recording the
results. Hence, all its components and
accessories must be operational and functional.
The examiner should check the
sensors/transducers attached to the body of the
subject.
2. The Examiner
Basis to all has been said about the utilization
and accuracy of the polygraph technique is the
matter of the examiner qualif ications and skills.
An examiner must be an intelligent person, with
reasonably good educational background –
preferably college degree
3. The Subject
Generally, there are three types of subjects for
polygraph testing:
a. Suspect
b. The Victim or Complainant
c. Witness
4. The Examination Room
The examination room is importantly considered
for effective polygraph testing. The room should
be:
1. Quiet, private room
2. No usual police surroundings
3. Without windows at all
4. No ornaments
5. Soundproof
6. No presence of other person
 5. Other Considerations
● The examiner must obtain the full details of the
case from the investigator.
● The subject should be informed of the nature of
the test and purpose of it.
● The subject should understand the following
statements; “if you are telling the truth you have
nothing to worry about, this instrument will
indicate you are telling the truth, and I will
report the fact to the officers who requested me
to make the test”.
 Duration of Polygraph Testing

Polygraph testing normally takes from 1 to 3 hour,

depending on the purpose of the examination, as
well as the subject’s attitude and any other
factors that causes lengthy examination.
The actual questioning aspect of the examinatio
n, which may repeat 3 to 4 times and lasts no
longer than a few minutes for each questions.
Limits maybe set in some cases, because the
blood pressure cuff can inf la te for 10 to 12
minutes, causing the subject undue discomfort.
 What are the Phases in Polygraph
Testing
● Phase 1- PRELIMINARY PREPARATIONS
Th i s s tage i s th e i n i ti al i n ter v i ew wi th th e
i n v e s ti g a to r h a n d l i n g th e c a s e o r p e r s o n
requesting it. The group involve in this stage are
the victim or the complainant, suspect and
witnesses. It includes obtaining and evaluation of
facts, determining areas the subjects needs to be
asked and the investigator must furnish the
examiner of the following;
1. Sworn written statement of the
suspect/witness/victim/complainant.
2. Incident or spot repor t, BI of the suspect,
witnesses, and victim or complainants
3. Rough sketch or pictures of the crime scene
4. Peculiar aspect of the offense
5. Exact time the offense was committed.
6. Known facts about the suspect’s action
7. Facts indicating any connection between
suspect, victim and witnesses
8. Exact type of weapon, tool or firearms used
9. Result of laboratory test
10. Unpublished facts of the offense known only
by the victim , suspects and the investigator.
PHASE II- PRE-TEST INTERVIEW
This is the stage of interview of the subject.
The purpose is to prepare or condition the
subject for the test. The following are to be
considered:
1. Appraisal of subject constitutional rights
2. Obtain subject’s consent
3. Taking of personal data of the subject
4. Determining subject’s suitability
5. Evaluating psychological preparation of the
subject
6. Informing the subject of his involvement with
PHASE III – THE EXAMINATION PROPER
After the pre-test interview, attachment of
polygraph sensors will follow, Pneumograph,
Cardiosphygmograph and the Galvanograph.
Review of questions with the subject before the
actual examination is made. Dis courage
comments or statement by the subject. Test
instrument must be given to the subject upon
completion of the neces s ar y preliminar y
preparation.
PHASE IV – THE POST TEST INTERVIEW
This stage includes all considerations that
bears on the examination. This is done just after
the instrument is turned off. If the polygraph test
result indicates deception, the examiner will then
proceed to conduct shor t interrogation. The
pu r pos e of wh i c h i s to obtai n c on fes s i on .
However, if the polygraph indicates that the
subject is innocent; the examiner will just release
the subject cordially and thanks him/her for
his/her cooperation.
 What is Chart Markings?

Is one of the most important things in the

conduct of polygraph examination because it
as s is ts the examiner in interpreting and
evaluating the test result, without these markings
the examiner will f in d it dif fic ult to interpret the
tracings which will be the basis in drawing out
conclusions and recommendations.
Signs and Symbols in Chart Marking
Sign or Symbol Meaning
X/60/1.5 A first markings on the chart

XX/60/1.5 A examiners mark after the test

X start of test

XX end of test

60 Mm of mercury shown in the sphygmo dial

A or M automatic or manual galvo amplifier

II point where question begins

+ Yes answer to question

- No answer to question

A adjustment

T subject talked instead answering

R request for repetition

C coughed

N noise

S sighed (moan)

PJ paper jam

SN sniffed

BI breathing instrument

OS outside stimulus caused change of tracing

M moved or movements

MI movement instruction

L laughed

B use to signify belched- emit gas from the stomach

C+ increase in galvo sensitivity

C- decrease in galvo sensitivity

Y yawned

IS ink stopped

CT cleared throat
 What is the Polygraph Chart Paper
or Polygram?
Polygraph chart is about 100 feet long, 6 to 8
inches in width with ½ or .5 inch top and bottom
m ar g i n s . C h ar t p ap e r s ar e i m p r i n te d w i th
horizontal lines spaced at ¼ -inch intervals or 20
divisions and vertical lines at 1/10-inch intervals
with heavy lines at ½ or .5 intervals. Each ½ inch
division of the vertical lines represents 5 seconds
of time. Puls e rate per minute may then be
computed according to number of beats per 1/2
–division by 12.
The Polygram (Paper Chart)
 How is the Chart Interpreted?

The accuracy of instrumental detection of

deception is dependent upon the examiner’s
ability to diagnose truth or deception by reading
and interpreting a subject’s charts. The polygraph
chart is the composite record of the
Pneumograph, cardiograph, and galvanograph
tracing from one series of questions. In every
polygraph test char t, there are two kinds of
res pon s es wh ere deception may be traced
namely;
1. Normal Response – refers to the tracing of
responses on the chart which does not deviates
f r o m th e n o r m s o f th e s u b j e c t’s
psychophysiological response, usually appears
when the s ubject is being as k of irrelevant
questions.
2. Specif ic Response – refers to any deviation
from the normal tracing of the subject in the
relevant and control questions.
The PNEUMOGRAPH TRACING

Normal Tracing
Specific Tracing (Pneumograph)
 Descriptive Types of Breathing

a. Normal
b. Rapid
c. Slow
d. Shallow
e. Deep
f. Serrated inhalation/or both
g. Deviations caused by coughing and
mechanics answering.
Pneumograph Changes indicative of
Deception
a. Change in the rhythm or regularity

b. Change in amplitude or volume

c. Change in the inhalation or exhalation ratio

d. Notched or serrated inhalation or exhalation

e. Change of base line; Loss of base line

f. Hyperventilation

g. Suppression

h. Respiratory block
Galvanograph Tracing (Normal)
Specific Galvanograph Tracing
 Galvanic Skin Reflex indicative of
Deception

a. Vertical rise at point of deception

b. Double saddle response
c. Long duration and/ or degree of response
following point of deception
d. Plugging salvo tracing.
Normal Cardiosphygmograph
Tracing
Specific Tracing
 Cardiograph Tracing indicative of
Deception
a. Increase or decrease in blood pressure
b. Increase or decrease in pulse rate
c. Increase or decrease in amplitude
d. Change in position or disappearance of
dichotic notch
e. extra systoles ( premature contradiction of an
auricle or ventricle while fundamental rhythm
of heart is maintained)
GOOD LUCK !!!