UNIVERSITY OF BAGUIO

SCHOOL OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY

Baguio City

DIGESTED REVIEW NOTES ON

POLYGRAPHY: SCIENCE OF LIE DETECTION

Researched and Presented by
DR. JEZREEL VICENTE, CCS, CSP, CST, CSMS
Email: jezreel_vicente@yahoo.com; FB: Jezreel Vicente
Faculty - PhDCrim, MSCrim, BSCrim, & BFSci, University of Baguio
Program Head - Forensic Science, University of Baguio, Baguio City

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

History: 19TH Century.

Dr. Hans Gross (father of Criminalistics) said:
 The search for truth is the basis and goal of criminal investigation.
 A large part of criminal work is nothing more than a battle of lies.

Hogan (a famous book writer) cites:

“Investigation is a battle of lies against lies”
As time pass by, men are striving to find ways how to detect lies.

To some countries, used Ordeals/Trials in which judgment is made by a Supernatural God.

But as time pass by, some people studied that bodily responses maybe used as bases in lie detection.
Others studied that physical reactions may serve as bases of lie detection.

Development of Cardio Sphygmograph

1. Angelo Mosso (1895) – studied fear and influence to the heart. He developed the sphymomanometer and scientific
cradle, used in measuring the flow of blood while person is in prone position.
2. Cesare Lombroso (1836-1909) – invented hydro-sphymograph (Lombroso’s Glove) that measures changes in pulse
and BP. He was the first person to employ scientific instrument for lie detection.
3. William Moulton Marston (1915) - Studied Sphygmomanometer and became the father of modern polygraphy.

He dealt with the following:

 Studied and researched on Sphygmomanometer
 Experimented on galvanometer and sphygmomanometer
 Studied Respiration

4. Dr. John Augustus Larson (1921)

o he was one among those who developed sphygmomanometer (known by press in America as sphyggy).
o He developed the work of Marston (blood pressure), he added pulse, respiration and skin conductivity.
o Margaret Taylor (wife of Larson). She was a victim of College Hall Case and was the first person to be
interrogated with the use of polygraph.

Leonarde Keeler
1. Inventor of Keeler Polygraph, which was an improved version of Larson’s apparatus.
2. Credited with introducing the “Card Test”
3. Specialized in “Peak of Tension Test”.

Keeler Polygraph records:

a. Blood pressure
b. Pulse rate
c. Respiration changes

Development of Pneumograph

1. Vittorio Benussi (1914) – he detected deception with the use of Pneumograph that measure Inhalation and
Exhalation (Respiration Male 10-23/min;
 Female 11-25/min)

2. Harold Burtt (1918) – He found out that Changes in Systolic Pressure is of greater value than Changes in Respiration.
(Pulse 60-120 beat/min).

Development of Galvanograph

1. Luigi Galvani (1791) – he developed the Galvanometer which he called it Galvanic Skin Reflex (GSR) which
records electrical bodily resistance.
2. Sticker (1897) – he theorized that GSR is influenced by existing mental impressions of a person.
3. Veraguth (1907) – he was the first to use the term “Psychogalvanic Skin Reflex).

Development of Questioning Technique

1. Leonarde Keeler (1942) – developed the “Relevant-irrelevant Test”

2. John E. Reid (1950) – developed the Reviewed Control Question consisting of known lie incorporated to the
relevant-irrelevant test. He also discovered the “Guilt-Complex test” administered to the overly responsive subjects.
3. Cleve Backster (1960) – developed the Backster Zone Comparison Test.

Early Publications on Polygraph

1. James Mackenzie (1906) – A heart specialist who described polygraph in his article entitled “The Ink Polygraph”
which appeared in the British Medical Journal in 1908.
2. Vittorio Benussi (1913) - presented a paper on Respiratory Symptoms of Lying before the Italian Society for
Psychology in Rome.
3. Richard O. Archer (1953)
First to record chest and abdominal breathing.
First to record two PSR.
3. Richard I. Golden (1969)
Presented a paper during the Annual Seminar of American Polygraph Association at Houston, Texas, USA.

Other Pioneers on Deception Detection

1. Francis Galton (1879)

Invented the Word Association Test (WAT).
2. Dr. Carl Guztav Jung
Developed the works of Francis Galton on WAT.
Alan Bell &
Charles Mc Quiston (1972)
American inventors of Psychological Stress Evaluator (PSE) that detects changes of voice tone such as
trembling, shouting, slowing and stammering.

Franz Anton Mesmer (1778)

Introduced hypnotism as a method of detecting deception.

Dr. Edward Mandell House (1858-1958)

A U.S. psychiatrist and diplomat who introduced Truth Serum as a method of detecting deception.

ANCIENT ORDEALS

Ordeals – are primitive ways of determining the guilty and innocent. Ordeal is synonymous with Trial, Judicium Dei and
test.

Ordeal is believed to have a supernatural power to intervene and helps the innocent and condemns the guilty.
Some ordeals were recorded in the book of Dr. Hans Gross, entitled “Criminal Investigation”

The Ayur-Veda
Is a Hindu book of health and sciences that is believed to be the earliest reference of the ordeals or
methods of detecting deception as adopted by several countries in the world specially Europe. It is also believed to be
the basis in the creation of a polygraph machine.

Combat Ordeal (India)

The accused and victim shall fight. The accused and/or victim may hire another to fight in place of them. The
loser shall be the Guilty.
 In England, King Henry III abolished all ordeals except Combat Ordeal. This was put to Novel and later, a movie
entitled “Ivanhoe.”

Red Hot Iron Ordeal (Rajhamal, North Bengal, India)

The accused will be required to carry to carry hot iron while walking.
The accused shall be required to put his tongue over a hot iron 9 times. If tongue is burned – Guilty.

Balance Ordeal (Institute of Vishnu, India)

On the ends of the balance are the accused and a counter balance.
The accused shall be required to step down and listens to the reading of the accusation, then he shall be
required again to go back to the other end of the balance.
If he was found HEAVIER – Guilty.

Water Ordeal (Modern Africa)

Kinds:
1. Boiling water Ordeal – the accused shall be required to deep hands in a boiling water and must get the small
stone inside. If hand is injured – guilty.
2. Cold water Ordeal – the accused’s feet and hands shall be tied and will be thrown in a body of water. If his
physical body knot are dry-Guilty.
Rice Chewing Ordeal (India)
Accused will be given Sathee Rice to chew/eat. The accused will be required to spit and show open mouth.
If the saliva is bloody or the mouth walls swell-Guilty.

Donkey’s Tail Ordeal

A Psychological theory with the use of a donkey (represents the accused). The donkey shall be placed in a room
alone.

If the donkey cried or sounds off, the accused is Guilty.

Red Water Ordeal (Eastern Africa)

The accused shall be required NOT to eat (fasting) for 12 Hrs. After which, he will swallow small amount of rice followed
by an emetic red water which was specially extracted from “Sassy Bark Tree.”
If the accused Vomits, accused is Guilty.

Tangena Ordeal (Madagascar – Island country in the Indian Ocean)

The accused will be given a poisonous drink called “Tangena,” a strong poison is fatal.
If the accused dies immediately – Guilty.

Corsnead Ordeal (Blessed Bread Ordeal)

A hallowed bread which is imprecated (cursed) shall be given to the accused to eat.
If the accused the accused swallowed the bread, he shall be Guilty.

Eucharist Ordeal
The accused (mostly clergy and monks), shall be given drinks (with decoction/poison).
If the accused dies – Guilty.
If innocent, Angel Gabriel will come from heaven and prevents the accused in drinking the poison.

Bier Ordeal (Ancient England)

The accused will be required to go and stand near/beside the dead person (victim).
If the wounds of the dead person (victim) oozes with blood, the person standing near the corpse is Guilty.

Red Hot Needle Ordeal (Wanaka, Eastern Africa)

The accused’s lower lip will be pierced with hot needle.
If after piercing, the wound produces blood, the accused is Guilty.

Heat and Fire Ordeal

The accused will be mandated to walk on fire/hot charcoals.
If accused is INJURED - Guilty.

Cross Ordeal
The accused and accuser shall be placed to physical test of extending hands under a cross.
The first to move or falls, is Guilty.
 Waxen Shirt Ordeal
The accused will be clothed covered with wax and will be required to walk over a Fire or Hot charcoals.
If wax on the clothing MELTS, accused is Guilty.

Hereditary Sieve Method Ordeal

Applies to Thieves. Dried bean seeds will be thrown on a Sieve.
If the thrown seed, WENT OUT from the sieve, the accused will be adjudged Guilty.

Tiger Ordeal (Siam – now Thailand)

The accused and accuser will be placed inside a Tiger’s Cage.
The person to be harmed or eaten by the tiger is the one Guilty (if accused).

Candle Ordeal (Burma – now Myanmar)

The accused and accuser will be given equally-sized candles and are simultaneously lighted.
First to fully melt the candle – Guilty.

Shellfish Ordeal (Borneo)

The accused and accuser will be represented by two live shellfishes which are put on a plate. An irritating fluid shall be
poured over the two fishes.
The first fish representative to move is Guilty

Suspended Axe Ordeal (Ancient Greece)

An elder of the community will be using axe to be spun in the center of suspects.
The person pointed by the blade of the axe is Guilty, thus, shall be put to death using the axe.

Cock’s Feather Ordeal (Ancient Nigeria)

A priest will use a cock’s feather to be pierced in the tongue of the accused. If the feather hardly penetrates the
tongue, the accuse is Guilty.

Corrosive Ordeal (Ancient Nigeria)

A priest will pour a corrosive substance over the eyes of the accused. If the accused became blind, he is Guilty.

Extinguishment of Ordeals
Sometime in Middle of 13th Century, countries developed their own laws and NOT practicing ordeals.

POLYGRAPH COMPONENTS & PARTS

Kinds of Polygraph
1. Analog
2. Computerized

1. B & W Lie Detector

Manufactured by B & W Associates of Michigan City, Indiana.
Measures Galvanic Skin Resistance (GSR) only.

Keeler Polygraph
 Invented by Leonarde Keeler
 Manufactured by Associated Research Company at Chicago, Illinois, USA.
 Used by CIA during the Korean War.
 Used in testing Cuban Nationals if they are Spies.
 One of the first portable polygraph.
 First of the pacesetter series that integrated photo/optical pletysmograph.

Lafayette Polygraph

 Manufactured by Lafayette Instrument Company, Indiana, USA in 1972.

 Most popular instrument introduced in 1970s.
 It has double pneumographs, GSR, Electro-cardio and a top-mounted pneumatic stimulus marker.
 Lightweight instrument enclosed in a sturdy halliburton case with case accessory storage.

Lee Polygraph
  Invented by Capt. Lee from Berkeley California Police Department.
 Capt. Lee was the first to introduce Guilt Complex Question, and First Control test which was later known as Pre-
test.
 Also known as Berkeley Psychograph, which was first introduced in Chicago, Illinois in 1938.
 Used for minors in 1930s until 1938.

Stoelting Polygraph (1950s to 1981)

 Manufactured by the Stoelting Company in Chicago, Illinois, USA.

 Designed by Cleve Backster in 1950s and gave it to the Stoelting Company.
 Started with 2 pens, it became 3 then developed to have 4 pens.

The Components of Polygraph

1. Pneumograph
- Records breathing changes of subject.
- Is composed of:
Pneumo 1 (thoracic part) – chest assembly
Pneumo 2 (abdomen) – abdominal assembly
- Tracings are located at 1st and 2nd lines of tracings.
- Note: inhalation ad expiration is one respiratory cycle.

2. Galvanograph
a. Records the skin resistance of subject in small amount of electricity.
b. Finger electrodes are attached with the index and ring finger (opposite hand where the BP Cuff is
attached)
c. Tracing is located 3rd from top on the Chart.
d. Has the longest pen of 4-7 inches.

3. Cardiosphymograph

a. Records heart beats, Blood Pressure and Pulse Rate.

b. Cuff is used attached around the subject’s arm and must be centered on the Brachial Artery about 1
inch above the elbow.
c. If my BP is 120/90, my 120 is the systolic and 90 is the diastolic.
d. Tracing on chart paper is located at bottom part.
e. Pen is 5 inhes long.

4. Kymograph
a. The component that drives the chart paper.
b. Pulls the chart paper at rate of 6-12 in/min.
c. One roll of chart paper may reach 100 feet long. It has 6 in width, ½ in margin apart.
• The 4-pen Tracings in the Chart Paper

Common Parts of Polygraph

1. Pen lifter
2. Program Pacer
3. Paper tear bar
4. Foam Pen hold-down
5. Attache Compartment
6. Accessory storage and Optional Calibration Checking fixture
7. Subject connections
8. Mechanical Pneumo Module
9. Galvanic Skin Response
10. Multi-function module
11. Mechanical cardio module
12. Paper storage device
13. AC Power Receptacle
14. Power Switch and Circuit Breaker
15. Chart Drive roller Lever
16. Power analyzer
17. Stimulus marker
18. Sphysmomanometer dial
19. Pneumo 1
20. Pneumo 2
21. Cuff
22. Pump
23. Mechanical cardio switch

TEST QUESTIONS AND PROCEDURE

Phases in Conducting Polygraph Examination

Initial Interview with the Investigator

1. Obtaining and evaluation of facts

2. The Investigator must furnish the Examiner the ff:
 Sworn statements of witnesses/complainants
 Incident or spot report
 B.I of suspects, witnesses and victims
 Rough sketch or pictures of the crime scene and other facts such as: amount of money, time and date, weapon used

Pre-test Interview

 Purpose is to condition the subject before the examination proper

 To provoke or observe indications of guilt or innocence.
 Interval time is 20-30 minutes.
 Examiner should not tell any info to the subject about the instrument which are considered myths.
 The subject must be informed of the nature and purpose of the test.
 The subject is informed of his/her miranda rights.

In-test (Instrumentation)

 The Instrument’s parts will be attached to the subject.

 The Pneumo 1 and 2 are attached to the chest and abdomen
 The BP Cuff to the Upper arm
 Finger electrodes to the index and ring fingers.
 After the attachments, the examiner shall now settle for the beginning of asking questions.

Post-test examination

 Purpose is to let the subject confess or admit any participation to the crime.
 May be started after the instrument is turned off.
 This is conducted when the chart indicates deception by doing short interrogation.
 If the chart indicates innocence, the subject maybe released cordially.
 Confessions during Polygraph Interrogation

General Rules in Formulating Test Questions

 Simple and direct

 Answerable by YES/NO
 Legal terms are not allowed
 Short but complete question
 Clearly stated
 Language understood by the subject.
 Must not be in the form of an accusation.
 Must refer to one offense.
1. Must refer one element of an offense.

Terms to Avoid

1. Murder/Homicide - Kill, shoot or stab

2. Rape - Forced to have sexual intercourse
3. Arson - Intentionally burn
4. Embezzlement - Stolen
5. Conspiracy - Agree with each other
6. Robbery - Force entry or Threat/intimidation

Types of Questions

1. Relevant Qs
2. Irrelevant Qs
3. Evidence Connecting Qs
4. Knowledge Qs
5. Sacrifice or DYAT Qs
6. Symptomatic Qs
7. Control Qs
8. SKY Qs

General Type of Tests

1. Specific Test - addresses specific known events that have occurred (robbery, theft, rape, murder).
2. Screening test - addresses events that may have occurred (espionage, sabotage, disclosure of classified
information).

1. Relevant Questions – address the crime under investigation.

 Strong Relevant (Primary/Crucial Questions) – tests the direct participation of the subject. Ex: Did you steal that
money?
 Weak relevant (Secondary Questions) – deals with partial involvement of subject. Ex: Were you told to steal the
money?

2. Irrelevant or Nuetral Questions – w/o relationship with the case under investigation. Ex: Is today Sunday?

3. Evidence Connecting Questions – intended to arouse the subject in incriminating proof that would tend to establish
his guilt. Ex: Was the Cal .46 found at the crime scene yours?

4. Knowledge Questions – used to know whether the subject has knowledge on info related to the crime. Ex: Do you
know the name of the suspect?

5. Sacrifice or DYAT Questions – This is asked before asking the first relevant question. Ex: Do you believe that I am not
going to trick you in this examination?

6. Symptomatic Questions – are asked to determine OUTSIDE FACTORS which is not under investigation.
Ex: Do you expect that I will read all questions you have reviewed?

7. Control or Comparison Questions – are NOT RELATED to the crime under investigation BUT SIMILAR in nature to the
crime under investigation.
 Primary Control Questions – must be based on experience of the subject within 3-5 years and must be based on
known lie.
Ex: Before attaining the age18, have you physically hurt someone?

 Secondary Control Questions – the same with primary CQ, must NOT be related to the crime under
investigation, that covers the CURRENT situation.
Ex: Have you ever physically assaulted someone in your life?

8. Sky Questions – used to verify the previous chart and detects indirect participation of subject.
S – Suspect
K – Knowledge
Y – You
Ex:
 Do you SUSPECT anyone who committed the crime?
 Do you KNOW the suspect?
 Did YOU saw the suspect in the act of doing the crime?

Test Techniques

Test 1. General Question Test (GQT)

The questions are consisting of series of relevant and irrelevant questions ask in a plan order. In general
questions are so arrange as to make answer by Yes or No.
Purpose: To establish a standard tracing before relevant questions are asked.
 Sequence of GQT
1. 1Q - Irrelevant Question
2. 2Q - irrelevant Question
3. 3Q - Weak Relevant Question
4. 4Q - Irrelevant Question
5. 5Q - Strong Relevant Question
6. 6Q - Control Question
7. 7Q - Irrelevant Question
8. 8Q - Evidence Control Question
9. 9Q - Knowledge Question
10. 10Q - Secondary Control Question

Sample Questions of GQT

1. 1Q – Irrelevant- Is your name John?
2. 2Q – Irrelevant- Is your family name Cruz?
3. 3Q – Weak Relevant- Did you ever steal anything before you were 18 years of age?
4. 4Q – Irrelevant- Are you married?
5. 5Q – Strong Relevant- Did you steal the computer of UST?
6. 6Q – Control Question- Aside from what you told me a while ago, such as et…, did you ever steal anything other
thing from UST?
7. 7Q – Irrelevant- Are you studying in UST?
8. 8Q – Evidence Control- Is the ball cup taken from the crime scene owned by you?
9. 9Q – Knowledge Question- Do you know who stole the computer?
10. 10 Q – Secondary Control- Do you know where the computer is being kept now?

GQT Data Collection Phase Rules:

1. No more than 13 questions per test, with no more than three relevant questions in succession. (General Rule:
Questions should be 8-12)
2. Length of the pretest is flexible.
3. Examinee is not told the order of the questions, but all are reviewed.
4. Minimum of three but no more than five relevant questions per examination
5. Different offenses may be asked in examination, however, they must be continuation of same crime (e.g.,
burglary & rape).

Test 2. Card Number Test (CNT) – done with the use of 7 cards numbered accordingly (except 7, 11 and 13). The
numbers 15, 8, 5, 3, 4, 14 and 12 are used. The subject shall select a card among the faced down cards which shall be
mixed among other cards. The subject shall be required to answer NO to all questions.

Purpose: To distortion if the card selected by the subject is shown/asked.

Test 3. Spot Responder Test (SRT) – contains questions previously asked in the General Question Test (GQT) with the
same number of the same questions earlier.

Purpose: To determine the response of subject on critical questions (relevant) about the crime.

Test 4. Mixed Question Test (MQT) – contains the same questions with Spot Responder Test (SRT) BUT mixed with
questions from General Question Test (GQT).

Purpose: To compare the degree of reaction between relevant and control questions.

Test 5. Silent Answer Test (SAT) – contains the same questions from GQT, CNT, SRT and MQT. The subject is instructed
to think of his/her answer without saying it, process is called “Sub Vocalization”

Purpose: To serve as affirmative check.

Supplementary Tests

1. Yes Test (YT) - is administered when there was a distortion on the General Question Test (GQT). In this test the
subject is instructed to answer YES to all questions.

2. Guilt Complex Test (GCT) - consists of questions concerning fabricated crimes BUT one question is a REAL QUESTION
that is all about the crime committed by the subject.
 3. Peak of Tension Test (PTT) - is a set of questions in which ONE of the questions is related to the crime committed.
The question selected (ONE ) should not have been reviewed by the subject.

3. Backster Zone Comparison Test (BZCT) - It is based on the principles of psychological set. Also provides constant
monitoring of subjects reactivity. Designed to disclose outside issues.

Sequence of Backster Zone Comparison Test (BZCT)

1. 1Q - Irrelevant Question
2. 2Q - Sacrifice Relevant Question
3. 3Q - Symptomatic Question
4. 4Q - Probable Lie (Control) Question
5. 5Q - Strong Relevant Question
6. 6Q - Probable lie (Control) Question
7. 7Q - Strong Relevant Question
8. 8Q - Symptomatic Question
9. 9Q - Guilt Complex Question
10. 10Q- Weak Relevant Question
11. 11Q- S – Do you SUSPECT…….
12. 12Q- K – Do you KNOW…….
13. 13Q- Y – Did YOU……

Sample Questions of Backster Zone Comparison Test (BZCT)

1Q – Irrelevant - Is your first name Jonathan?

2Q – Sacrifice Relevant - Regarding that stolen watch and gold coin collection do you intend to answer truthfully each
questions about that?
3Q – Symptomatic - Are you completely convinced that I will not ask you question on this test that has already between
reviewed?
4Q – Probable Lie (Control) - Can you remember stealing anything at all before you were 18 years old?
5Q – Strong Relevant - Did you steal the bracelet?
6Q – Probable Lie (Control) - Other than what you told me about, have you ever stolen other things?
7Q – Strong Relevant - Did you steal the watch of Mary?
8Q – Symptomatic - Is there something else you are afraid that I will ask you a question about; even though I told you I
would not?
9Q – Guilt Complex - Did you steal the computer?
10Q – Weak Relevant - Do you known the name brand of that stolen computer?
11Q – S (Suspect) - Do you SUSPECT anyone in particular of having stolen the watch of Mary?
12Q – K (Know) - Do you KNOW for sure who stole the watch of Mary?
13Q – Y (You) - Do YOU steal the watch of Mary?

Color Zones Identifying BZCT Type of Questions

a. RED zone - Strong Relevant Question
b. GREEN zone - Probable Lie (Control) Question
c. BLACK zone - Symptomatic (Outside issues) Question
d. YELLOW zone - Irrelevant and Sacrifice Relevant
e. ORANGE zone - Weak Relevant Question

Types of Responses
1. Internal response – refers to throbbing of heart, increase of blood pressure, changes of pulse rate, dryness of
the mouth and lump in the throat.
2. External response – includes sweating, dryness of lips, blushing of face, dilation of pupils.

Terms to Understand
1. Fear – is any emotional response to danger that appear beyond a person’s defensive power.
2. Stimulus – is a force that arouses interest, enthusiasm and excitement of a person.
3. Reaction – a response to something that involves taking action.
4. Deception – an act of deceiving, misleading that usually accompanied by lying.
5. Detection – is an act of discovery
6. Lying – the uttering or conveying of falsehood.
7. Response – a reply given to a question that could be true or not.
8. Specific Response – is any deviation from the normal tracing of a subject.
9. Normal response – a tracing on the chart that is usually observed when irrelevant questions are asked.
10. Chart/Polygrams – refers to the composite records of the pneumo, galvo and cardio tracings recorded from series of
questions.
11. Reverse Norm – An irrelevant question that is intentionally misread during the test purposely to determine
whetehr the subject is paying attention to the questions and to verify response capability. Ex: Were you born in
the month of ___(wrong month).
12. Math Question – is a simple addition and subtraction question for examinees sometimes given at the end of R/I
Test.
13. Conspecnificance – a mnemonic for CONSISTENCY, SPECIFICITY and SIGNIFICANCE.
14. Overall truth Question – a generic test question about an examinee’s truthfulness during the R/I Test.

Ex: 1) Do you intend to lie on this test?

2) Did you lie in any of the question on this test?

Principles of Testing
1. The first question is always an irrelevant question. A different irrelevant is used in each chart.
2. The 2nd question is always an irrelevant or overall truth question.
3. No more than 3 questions should be given in a row without an irrelevant question.
4. Question spacing is 20-25 seconds.
5. There are usually 8-12 questions in a chart.

Chart Marking, Probing & Interpretation

Chart Marking

Signs and Symbols

Single x ( X )
Indicates the beginning of test
Inform the subject that the test begins
X is placed on the chart below the tracing
Wait for 15-20 Seconds before asking the first question.

Double x (XX)
Indicates the end of the test
XX mark is put below the tracing
Inform the subject that the test is about to end.

/ //
/ indicates the beginning of a question
// indicates the ending of a question

Numbering of Question - Numbering should be done between the stimulus marks either below or right of stimulus
marking.

Positive (+), Negative (-) and No sign

+ is used when the subject answered YES
- is used when the subject answered NO
No sign if subject did not answer

T-----T - used when the subject is talking. The horizontal line between the letters shows how long the talking made by
the subject.
TI - used when the Examiner is giving instructions to the subject.
C – indicates coughing of subject
M or M-------M – the letter M indicates movements of subject. M----M is used when there is prolonged movements of
subject.
MI – movement instructions given by the Examiner.
Arrow up & Arrow down – mechanical adjustments made by the Examiner on the machine.
CT – when Clearing of Throat was done by the subject, place below the pneumo tracing.
OSN – marked when Outside Noise is heard outside that would affect the test.
S – indicates Sigh (deep breath) made by the subject, placed inside the Pneumo tracing.
SN – indicates Sniffing (breathing thru the nose = “singhot”) of subject, place Below the Pneumo tracing.
SZ – indicates Sneezing (involuntary expelling of air thru the nose and mouth = “hatsing”) of subject, placed Below the
Pneumo tracing.
B – indicates Burping (a noise made thru the mouth = “dighay”), placed below the tracing (pnuemo and Galvo
tracings)
L – indicates Laughing made by the subject. Placed below the Pneumo tracing (This also affects the Cardio tracing)
 Y – indicates Yawning (opening of mouth wide due to tireness or boredom). Placed below the pneumo tracing. This
also affects the Cardio and Galvo tracings.
VC – indicates Voice Change, placed at the break of Cardio tracing.
IM – indicates Involuntary Movement. Placed at the break point of Cardio tracing.
ARM------ARM – indicates Blood Pressure Cuff discomfort of the subject.
BI – indicates Breathing Instructions made by the Examiner. Placed below the Cardio tracing.
RQ – indicates Repetition of Question was requested by the subject.
PJ – indicates Paper Jam below the Cardio Pattern.
EE– Examiner’s error. Must be put on the most affected tracing.
\ \ – Disregard response. Used for Electro Dermal Tracings only to disregard early response.
WR – Will repeat Last question. Mark is put below the Cardio tracing.

Method of Numbering of Charts for Identification

1. Identifying information on test charts.

a. Subject’s name, rank or profession.
b. Date and hour of examination.
c. Test or chart number.
d. Initial of examiner.
e. To be written above the pneumo pattern near the beginning of the chart.

2. Identifying signature of subject.

a. At the completion of the examination the subject will be required to sign across the three recorded
graph.
b. Done for the purpose of positive identification of each chart.
Chart Probing is the process of asking questions done by the examiner to the subject by exploring the
questions asked.

Examples

1. What was your feelings when I asked you the first relevant question?
2. Why is that you were perspiring when I asked you the 2nd relevant question?

Purposes of Chart Probing

1. To determine the true cause of the recorded responses.

2. To calm an overly stimulated subject.
3. To clarify confusion or misunderstanding that might have been caused by the questions asked.
4. To convince doubtful subjects who may be testing the instrument or the efficiency of the examiner.
5. To re-stimulate a subject who has produced little response or no response.
6. To obtain the cause or origin of a flat or unemotional chart.
7. To gain additional information pertinent to any specific issue.
8. To set the stage for the succeeding chart by rectifying given questions that may necessitate rephrasing.
9. To maintain a gentle psychological pressure
10. To verify whether or not the subject has been truthful in answering the questions asked during the test.

Samples of Chart Probing Questions

1. What was in your mind when I asked you this question?

2. Did you recall any similar incident when I asked you this question?
3. Is there something you are afraid to tell me about?
4. Can you tell me what could have caused this reaction when I asked this question?
5. What did you do after I asked you this question?

Chart Interpretation

Accuracy of Instrumental Detection of Deception

The accuracy of instrumental detection of deception is dependent upon the examiner’s ability to diagnose truth or
deception by reading and interpreting the chart of the subject.

Keynotes to Accurate Chart Interpretation

Question Formulation
This is the keynote to accurate chart interpretation.
 If a relevant question has been properly phrased and delivered to resolve its particular purpose, it will influence
subject’s fight or flight mechanism in a manner, which will facilitate chart interpretation.

Cardinal Rules in Chart Interpretation

General Rule is “Any change from normal requires an explanation.” The responsibilities of the examiner is to
determine:
a) whether a change from normal is psychological or physiological?
b) whether it results from direct, indirect, implied, associated, considered, sensitive, fearful or
distasteful sources.
c) whether sources are immediately at hand or extraneous.
d) whether the change from normal was a result of one or a combination of all these.
A smart examiner would want to be right in his interpretation of chart tracings. He must be right, law objectivity goes
out of the window and subjectivity reigns.

Descriptive Types of Breathing

a. Normal
b. Rapid
c. Slow
d. Shallow
e. Deep
f. Serrated inhalation
g. Serrated exhalation or both
h. Deviation caused by coughing

THE EXAMINER, INVESTIGATOR & SUBJECT

Polygraph Examiner is also called

1. Polygraphist
2. Forensic Psychophysiologist
3. Lie detector specialist
4. Lie Detector (misnomer but is being accepted internationally)

Polygraph examiner is Responsible in

1. Collecting facts of the case

2. Formulating questions
3. Setting up the interrogation room and polygraph
4. Profiling and preparing the subject
5. Asking questions
6. Chart marking
7. Chart probing
8. Chart interpretation

Axciton International Academy (AIA)

1. The school for Polygraphists founded by Capt. Clarence D. Lee.

2. The school is accredited by the American Polygraphists Association (APA)
3. Certified by the American Association of Police Polygraphists (AAPP).

Characteristics of Polygraphist

1. Must have Patience

2. Must be a Practical psychologist
3. Must be friendly
4. Must Never bluff and deceive subject
5. Must talk on all subjects under the Sun
6. Must be courteous and gentle
7. Must be resourceful
8. Must be firm
9. Must be in semi or formal dress
10. Must avoid legal terms
 Polygraph examiner should know the:

1. Complete physical description of the subject (deaf or blind).

2. Complete history of the subject.
3. Experience, training, and educational attainment of the subject (to make the subject talk to himself).
4. Brief synopsis of the case (fact of he case so the examiner can formulate the questioners).
5. Reason why the subject is to be interrogated.

Responsibilities of Polygraphist to the Subject

1. To know if the subject is voluntarily submitting himself for examination.

2. To inform the subject of his constitutional rights against self-incrimination.
3. To make sure machine is in good working condition.
4. Never make a conclusive verbal or written conclusions based on ONE chart. (must be based on atleast TWO or
MORE.
5. Should render opinion on charts made by him.
6. Should NOT suggest ay opinion on other charts when he is NOT familiar with the methods and procedures
employed.

Reasons why polygraph exam result is not accepted as evidence by most countries:

1. Qualifications of the polygraph examiners are not standardized

2. No standard instrumentation.
3. Not 100% accurate
4. Not scientific

The Investigator on Case

Responsibilities of Investigator to the EXAMINER

1. Must NOT ask the test to bolster the evidence submitted to the court.
2. Must NOT use polygraph as props, ruse or trickery to secure confession.
3. Must NOT tell to anyone that the polygraph would decide whether the subject will be guilty or not.
4. Must NOT stop investigating even the result of exam tells that the subject lied or told the truth.
5. Must NOT stop investigating if examination failed or deferred.
Responsibilities of Investigator to the SUBJECT
1. Explain the nature of the test (how it works, what it records responses)
2. Must NOT divulge details of an offense that maybe utilized in the application of Peak of Tension test.
3. Recommend the test for the subject to prove his innocence.
4. Tell the subject that the Examiner is skilled and knowledgeable and Impartial.
5. Avoid any issue about the Machine which are NOT backed by fact.
The “Subject” of Polygraph Test

The subject

1. Must NOT smoke 2 HOURS prior to the test.

2. Must have a good sleep of at least 5 HRS before the test.
3. If pregnant, the examiner shall decide whether to continue the examination or not.
4. If Under Medication, the examiner will list the medicines and illness, to be consulted with Physicians to
determine possible effects to physiological responses of the subject.
5. Must be free from Alcoholic influence.
Conditions of the subject
1. Must have a good sleep prior to test.
2. Must NOT be interrogated for prolonged period of time prior to the test.
3. Must NOT be physically and mentally tortured prior to the test.
4. Must NOT be suffering from any temporary illness prior to the test.
5. Must NOT be hungy

Lies

Types of Liars

1. Panic Liar – lies in order to avoid consequences of confession.

2. Occupational Liar – lies when there is higher pay.
3. Tournament Liar – views an interview or interrogation as contest and wants to win, thus telling lies. He lies
since it is the remaining weapon to survive. He lies to let people believe that the law is punishing the innocent person.

…Types of Liar

4. Ethnological Liar – trained not to squeal, usually covered by Creed of Syndicates/Gangs.

5. Psychopatic Liar – has no conscience and shows no regret and no manifestation of guilt. The most difficult
type of liar since he is a good actor and can fool investigators.
6. Pathological Liar – a mentally affected person who cannot distinguish right from wrong.
7. Black Liar – a hypocrite person who always pretend.

Types of Lies, How Done

1. Direct Denial – DENYING the issue directly. Example – I am not the rapist.
2. Lie of Omission – lying by REMOVING other things done, which are not intended to be told to another person.
3. Lie of Fabrication – lying by COMPOSING lie answers to a person.
4. Lie of Exaggeration – lying by ADDING unnecessary answers.

Types of Lies According to Purpose

1. Benign or White Lie – used to maintain harmony or friendship.

2. Red Lie – used to destroy other ideologies by means of Propaganda (Systematic False Publicity usually against
the government).
3. Malicious Lie – used to mislead or obstruct justice. Malice = means Purpose

Signs of Lying According to Genera Categories

1. Verbal Clues – are words that are spoken, speed of delivery, choice of words, tone of voice and other tense of
language.
2. Non-verbal Clues – can be observed in body movements, gestures, facial expressions, body posture.

Verbal Clues of Lying

1. Way of responding to a question – truthful answers are direct, deceptive answers are cautious.
2. Response Time – truthful persons answer questions immediately. Liars answer with delay to think for excuses.
3. Request for repetition of question – is done by a person for him to think of what will be his answer.
4. Stammering – Untruthful persons usually stammer when answering. Truthful persons answer straight and
direct.
5. Over Politeness – the unusual way of using respectable addresses such as sir and ma’am.
6. Volunteering Oath – Lying person frequently swears that he/she is telling the truth. Truthful person simply
answers the question.
7. Clarity of Response – Lying person gives broad answers. Truthful person answers clearly and directly.
8. Use of words – Lying person tends to avoid use of appropriate word. Truthful person uses the Correct terms
and not thinking of any substitute word.
9. Assertiveness – Lying person are NOT sure of his/her answer. Truthful person is Confident of his/her answer.
10. Inconsistencies – Lying person tells Contradicting word or ideas. Truthful person answers consistent from
previous statement.
11. Slip of the tongue – Lying person accidentally tells the truth. Truthful person don’t experience this.
12. Tirades – Lying person provides long angry answer. Truthful person answers short and direct.
13. Pauses – Lying person pauses frequently. Truthful person answers with no unnecessary pause.
14. Speed of Speech – Lying person is so tensed and may communicate very slow/fast. Truthful person answers
with normal speed.

Non-Verbal Clues of Lying

1. Emblems – are bodily movements that indicate meaning. Ex: shaking/nodding of head, shrugging shoulders,
thumbs up sign.
2. Manipulators – include acts of touching body parts when talking. Ex: Grooming hair, wringing of hands,
picking imaginary fur from coat.
3. Fidgeting – the unusual activities of fingers during talking.
4. Increased Breathing – serves as clue of telling a lie, because when a person tells a lie, breathing is affected.
5. Excessive Sweating – Too much sweating is an indication of telling a lie.
6. Frequent Swallowing – occurs when mouth is dry due to questions that give stress to the person.
7. Facial Muscles – are functioning when a person shows facial expression. Ex: Forcing a smile.
8. Unusual Movements of Eyes – when Pupil of an eye rapidly blinks, its an indication of telling a lie.
9. Blushing of Face – when a person lies, blood rush up to different parts of the body usually observed on face.

The Examination Room

The Polygraph Examination Room

1. Should be 90% sound proof.

2. No decoration, pictures and other objects that may distract the subject.
3. Light insight the room should be sufficient only (NOT too bright, NOT too dark)
…The Examination Room
4. Must be adequately ventilated with normal temperature (Not too cold, not too hot).
5. If fully furnished, there should be a concealed microphone in the examination room. (so that the observers
hear the conversation).
6. There should be an Observation Room with One way Mirror.
7. Must be spacious for 2 persons.

Legal Aspects of Polygraphy

Admissibility of Result in Other Countries

1. Most states of US do not allow the admissibility of Polygraph Result in Court.

2. In England, the admissibility of polygraph result lies on the trial judge.
3. In the Philippines, polygraph result can be admissible if BOTH parties and Trial Judge allows it.
Generally – most countries’ courts do not allow admissibility of polygraph result.

Frye v. US
The court ruled in this case that polygraph result is inadmissible since it is not 100% reliable and scientific.

Summary of Facts:

1. Frye was accused of 2nd degree murder.

2. Frye pleaded of being innocent of the case.
3. Marston subjected Frye to polygraph test (Systolic blood pressure), indicates that Frye was telling the truth.
4. The jury found him guilty as charged.
5. After serving 3 years in prison, a man confessed to the crime and Frye was released and was paid by the US Govt
for damages.
 Frye standard (Frye test / General acceptance test) is a test to determine the admissibility of scientific
evidence.
 It provides that expert opinion based on a scientific technique is admissible only where the technique is
generally accepted as reliable in the relevant scientific community.

Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals

(509 U.S. 579 (1993)

This was a US Supreme Court case determining the standard for admitting expert testimony in federal courts.
 Daubert standard - provides a rule of evidence regarding the admissibility of expert witnesses' testimony
during US federal legal proceedings.
 Daubert trilogy - refers to the 3 US Supreme Court cases that articulated the Daubert standard.

The Daubert Trilogy

1. Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals (1993)

2. General Electric Co. v. Joiner
3. Kumho Tire Co. v. Carmichael (1999)

COUNTRIES THAT ALLOW POLYGRAPH TEST AS PART OF INVESTIGATION

(Prof. Ray Bull, from insidetime issue Sept 2007)
1. Belgium
2. Canada
3. Israel
4. Japan
5. Turkey
6. Singapore
 7. South Korea
8. Mexico
9. Pakistan
10. Philippines
11. Taiwan
12. Thailand
13. USA

The POLYGRAPHIST must be:

1. Educationally qualified
2. Must have Local and International Trainings
3. Must have Experience
4. Must be a Professional Criminologist or other equivalent Professions
5. Other qualifications as maybe set by authorities.

Duty of the Prosecution Party

1. Convince the Judge that the Examiner-Polygraphist is qualified as to:

a) Education
b) Trainings
c) Experience
2. Convince the Defense for the conduct of examination.
3. Convince the Judge of the admissibility of Polygraph Result During the Direct Examination.
Note: The EXAMINER is NOT the witness of the prosecution. The EXAMINER administers and interprets the result. Its
Up to the Court to Decide on the Admissibility.
Some Early Cases in USA
Arizona – State vs Mendez
California – People vs Espinoza
Delaware – Foraker vs State
Hawaii – State vs Okumora
Indiana – Sanchez vs State
Kansa – State vs. Wakefield
N. Carolina – State vs Fleming
Ohio – State vs Hesson
Texas – State vs Perkins
Federal Courts – US vs Pasado
- US vs Thomas
- US vs Piccinonna
- US vs Galbreth
Philippine Cases on Polygraphy

Criminal Cases
1. PP vs Amado Daniel – decided by SC
2. PP vs Danilo Bajas – decided by RTC-Makati
3. PP vs Melanio Esporas and Elena Falzon (RTC Makati)

Civil Cases

1. Cresencia Isaguirre vs Elvira Isaguirre (RTC-Pasig City)

2. Jesusa Reyes vs Conrado Reyes (RTC Makati)

Carpo v. Court of Appeals

It was decided that polygraph results are not admissible as evidence due to its substandard conduct of examination
and not being scientific perfectly.

Polygraph Test Accuracy

98% accurate because it depends on different factors.

Factors that affect the result of Polygraph Test:

1. Examiner (Experience, education and training)

2. Subject (Nervousness, tension)
3. Setting – condition of machine, settings of machine, settings of the room.
4. Countermeasures – are physical activities, drugs taken, mental (what the subject thinks abut the test),

Polygraph Examination is used by the following:

1. Law enforcement agencies – PNP and NBI, etc.

2. Legal community – Prosecutors, defense lawyers, lawyers, etc
3. Private sector – companies, organizations

Errors in Polygraph Examination

1. False Positive – the examinee told the truth but the polygraph result tells that he lied.
2. False Negative – the examinee did not tell the truth but the polygraph result tells that he told the truth.

Other Uses of Polygraph

1. Criminal Investigation – a valuable tool for eliminating innocent suspects.

2. Pre-employment screening – used in verifying statement of a job applicant from derogatory remarks.
3. Periodic screening – used to determine dishonest employees.
4. Promotion – used in deciding in promotions specially between 2 persons qualified for promotions.