Lie Detection Techniques

This course includes the study of lie detection techniques and focuses on the conduct of a polygraph examination, use of the polygraph instrument using the standard procedures as applied in the detection of crime, criminal investigation, and administration of justice.

Course description as found in the course syllabus

Chapter 1: Introduction to Lie Detection

• Fundamentals of Lie Detection
• The Psychology of Lying
• Lies and Liars
• Ancient Methods of Detecting Deception
• Other Methods of Detecting Deception

Chapter 2: Fundamentals of Polygraphy

• Introduction to Polygraphy
• The Nervous System
• The Polygraph Instrument
• General Uses

Chapter 3: Reliability and Validity of the Polygraph

• Reliability and Validity of the Polygraph Instrument
• Legal Aspects of Polygraph Use
• Pros and Cons

Chapter 4: Question Formulation for Polygraph Examination

• General Guidelines for Question Formulation
• Types of Questions
• Types of Test

Chapter 5: Conduct of the Polygraph Examination

• Preliminary Preparations
• Pre-test Interview
• Examination Proper
• Post-Test Interview or Interrogation

Chapter 6: Chart Interpretation

• Chart Markings
• Chart Interpretation
• Changes in the Pneumograph Component
• Changes in the Galvanograph Component
• Changes in the Cardiograph Component

Chapter 7: The Stoelting Computerized Polygraph System

• Overview
• Functions
• Capabilities
• Setup
• Test Questions and Types
• Limitations
• Analysis

Laboratory Activities

References:

• Student Reports
• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): What It Is & Function. (n.d.). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23123-peripheral-nervous-system-pns
• The Polygraph and Lie Detection. (2003). In National Academies Press eBooks. https://doi.org/10.17226/10420

Fundamentals of Lie Detection →