CHRISTIAN POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE OF CATANDUANES

COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE EDUCATION

Francia, Virac, Catanduanes

FORENSIC 5
LIE DETECTION TECHNIQUES

Polygraph

Polygraph is an instrument that simultaneously records the changes of physiological reactions in the human
body as indicative of deception.

It is an instrument for the recording of changes in blood pressure, pulse rate, respiration and skin resistance
as an indication of emotional disturbances especially of lying when questioned.

Thomas Jeffferson was the first person to use the term polygraph to describe one of his inventions which
could repeatedly rewrite words in 1790.

Deception- is an act of deceiving or misleading which is usually accomplished by lying.

Lying- as commonly used in our study, is the uttering or conveying falsehood or creating a false or misleading
impression with the intention of wrongfully affecting the acts, opinion or affection of another. It can be accomplished
either by:
1. Verbal terms spoken by the mouth;
2. Acts, feigns, ruses or other means by which may be able to get the desired results through marks and
symbols.

Detection- is the act of discovering the existence or presence of something hidden or obscured.

Polygraphy- from the two Greek word: “POLY” which means MANY or MORE; and “GRAPHOS” which means
WRITINGS.

It is the scientific detection of deception through the aid or use of polygraph instrument.

Tripod Foundation of Polygraphy

1. Mechanical Leg Basic Premises- the polygraph machine or instrument is mechanically capable of making
graphical records containing reliable information regarding physiological changes.
2. Physiological Leg Basic Premise- among the physiological changes that may be recorded and identifies are
those that automatically occur only following the stimulation of specific nervous system component and from
which stimulation of those specific nervous system components can be reliably diagnosed.
3. Psychological Leg Basic Premise- the specific nervous system component whose stimulation can thus be
diagnosed are so stimulated by the involuntary mental and emotional processes of the individual who is
consciously attempting concealment of deception specially if that individual has something at stake and the
prevailing circumstances lead him to believe that exposure to detection is a quite possible although
undesirable.

Polygraph Examination

It is a process that encompasses all activities that take place between a polygraph examiner and an examinee
during a specific series of interactions. For a valid polygraph examination to exist respiration, electrodermal activity,
and cardiovascular activity must be monitored and recorded. It is also termed “Forensic Psychophysiological
Detection of Deception.”

Distinction between polygraph examination and lie detector test

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 Technically lie detector test covers all tests intended to detect deception and verify truthfulness of an
individual. Any test conducted with or without instrument for as long as the purpose of conducting the test is to know
whether the subject is lying or not is considered lie detector test. On the other hand, polygraph examination is one of
the lie detector tests available in the field today. Polygraph examination is conducted using an instrument called
polygraph, administered by a polygraph examiner.

Polygraph Examiner

Polygraph examiner is one who is capable of detecting deception and verifying the truthfulness of statement
through the use of a polygraph instrument. He is someone who has successfully completed formal education and
training in conducting polygraph examination and is certified by his agency to conduct such examination. Polygraph
examiner is also known as “Forensic Psychophysiologist”.

Polygraph Examiner
One who is capable of detecting deception and verifying the truthfulness of statement through the use of a
polygraph instrument.

Accuracy of the Polygraph Test Results

The accuracy of the polygraph results ranges from 95% to 100% depending upon the factors that affect the
test.

Objective of the Polygraph Examination

The ultimate objective of Polygraph examination is to obtain the Subject’s “ADMISSION or CONFESSION” of
the offense committed.

Factors that Affect the Accuracy of the Polygraph Result

1. The instrument
2. The condition of the subject
3. The condition of the examination room
4. The qualification and skills of the examiner

Ideal Examination Room

1. It must be spacious for two persons
2. It must be well ventilated
3. It must be well lighted
4. It must not be decorated
5. It must be 90 percent sound proof
6. Room should be equipped with one way mirror

Subject

Subject or examinee is any person who undergoes polygraph examination.

Three General Types of Subjects

a. Victim or Complainant
b. Witness
c. Suspects

Condition of the subject to be considered Fit before the polygraph Test

1. The subject must have a good night sleep prior to the test at least five hours
2. The subject must refrain from smoking for at least two hours prior to the test
3. The subject must not be interrogated for a prolonged period prior to the test
4. The subject must be free from any physical and mental abuse prior to the test

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 5. The subject must refrain from the use of alcohol, sedatives, prohibited drugs and other cold syrups or capsule
for at least 12 hours prior to the test
6. The subject must not be hungry
7. The subject must not be suffering from any temporary illness such as: fever, severe cold and cough, allergy,
stomachache, toothache, open wound and the like.
8. The subject must not highly and emotionally nervous.
9. The female subject must be free from menstrual cycle.
10. The subject must not be sexually abused.

Rights of the Subject

1. To be examined by a qualified examiner
2. To be determined if fit for examination
3. To be informed of the reason for the lie detector test
4. To have an explanation of the lie detector machine and what it does.
5. To give consent to the lie detector test.
6. Not to be compelled to undergo prolonged questioning.
7. Not to be exposed to oral criticism or abuse.
8. Not to be exposed to physical, mental or psychological abuse, and
9. To refuse to submit to the lie detector test.

The Examiner
1. Basic Qualification of Polygraph Examiner
a. An intelligent person with fair educational background- preferably college degree holder (BS Psychology
and/or BS Criminology)
b. He should have an intense interest in the work itself
c. Have a good practical understanding of human nature or behavior in general.
d. Has a suitable personality trait which may be evident from his otherwise general ability to get along with
people and be well liked by his friends and associates.
e. A person of good moral character.
2. Basic Training for Six Months:
a. Reading instruction in the pertinent phases of Physiology and Psychology
b. Frequent observation of an experienced examiner working on actual cases.
c. Personal experience in experimental case testing under instructor’s supervision.
d. Examination and interpretation of a considerable number of records in solved cases.
e. It should also include instruction, as well as observational and personal experience, in the application of
psychological tactics and techniques for obtaining confessions and other helpful information subsequent
to the testing of truthful subjects.

Note: As a general rule, the results of the polygraph test are INADMISSIBLE as evidence.

Limitation of Polygraph
1. Person It is an invaluable investigative aid, but never a substitute for an investigation.
2. It is not a lie detector, but it is a scientific diagnostic instrument.
3. It does not determine facts; it records responses to that the subject knows to be true.
4. It is an accurate as the examiner is competent.
5. The test will not be given until enough facts of the case have been established to permit an examiner to
prepare a complete set of suitable question.
6. A test will not be given without the voluntary consent of the subject.
7. No indication will be given to any person or place in any report that a person will be considered guilty
because he refuse to take the test.
8. A test will not be given until the accusation have been explained to the subject.
9. No attempt to use polygraph for mental or physical evaluation of any person.
10. No examination can be conducted to an unfit subject.
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Two Types of Polygraph Instrument

1. Conventional Polygraph Instrument

It is the old and traditional type of instrument being used in polygraphy today, it records different
systems of the human body such as respiration, galvanic skin response or known today as
electrodermal response, and cardiovascular activity.

2. Computerized Polygraph Instrument

Is a sophisticated state of the art computer-aided polygraph instrument, it allows the examiner to
collect and store physiological data from the subject in the easiest way with no hassle. It records the same
systems of the human body with that of the conventional instrument. However, it has some additional
features which are not available in conventional instruments.

Uses of Polygraphy
1. Pre-employment Screening- a test used to screen applicants for employment. Some private companies in
the Philippines require their applicants to undergo polygraph screening test.
2. Periodic Audit- a test used to determine the honesty and integrity of the present employee with the
company.
3. Case Investigation- a test commonly conducted in the field today when there is an incident or issue
under question.
4. Paired Testing- a polygraph test conducted when there are two persons who asserts contradictory
statement. In this test, both persons simultaneously undergo polygraph exam in separate rooms with
different examiners.
5. Post-Conviction Sex Offender Testing- a test conducted to those convicted of sex crimes to monitor their
behavior while under parole or probation. Presently, this provides effective monitoring procedures in the
field today.

Early Methods of Lie Detection

The issue of lie detection is as old as man himself. Back in the ancient times, rulers and their justice courts
used various techniques to catch a liar and establish the truth. Historical chronicles and ancient written records carry
evidence about complex rituals and sophisticated ordeals otherwise known as “divine justice” developed to this end.

Since the dawn of civilization, mankind has been seeking ways to distinguish truth from lies among individuals
suspected of criminal wrongdoing. Various techniques were used for the verification of truth and the detection of
deception over the centuries-many o0f which being ridiculous and cruel.

Early Forms of Trial

 Trial by Combat (resolving issue by use of human strength)
 Trial by Ordeal (by means of pain)
 Trial by Jury (fact finders)
 Trial by Torture (witch hunt)

PRE- SCIENTIFIC METHODS OF DETECTING DECEPTION

1. Trial by Combat (Wager of Battle, Trial by Battle or Judicial Duel)

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 It was a method to settle accusations in the absence of witnesses or a confession where two
parties in dispute fought in single combat. The winner of the fight would be proclaimed innocent
while the loser would be adjudged guilty.
2. Trial by Ordeal
A judicial practice where in the guilt or innocence of the accused is determined by subjecting
him to unpleasant, usually dangerous, experience. The word ordeal is derived from the Medieval
Latin word “Dei Indicum” “Divine Providence” which means “a miraculous decision”. In some cases,
the accused are considered innocent if they survived the test, or if their injuries healed. In other
cases, only death is accepted as a proof of innocence.
a. Ordeal of Heat and Fire- This method of ordeal encompasses a number of sub-classifications of tests such
as the Red Hot Iron Ordeal, the Ordeal of Hot Needle, and the Boiling Water Ordeal among others. In this
test, the accused walks a certain distance, usually nine feet, over red hot plowshares or while holding a
red-hot iron. Innocence is sometimes established by a complete lack of injury, but it is more common for
the wound to be bandaged and re-examined three days later by a priest, who would pronounce whether
God had intervened to heal it, or that it was merely festering – in case of which, the suspect would be
exiled or executed.

a.1. Ordeal of Hot Water/ Boiling Water Ordeal- this test requires the accused to
retrieve a stone from a boiling water. The depth from which the stone had to be retrieved
depends on the number of accusations: up to the wrist for one accusation and up to the
elbow for three. The ordeal would take place in a church, with several in attendance, purified
and praying to God to reveal the truth. Afterwards, the hand of the accused is bound and
examined after three days to see whether it was healing or festering. If it is healing, the
accused would be considered innocent, otherwise, the accused is said to be guilty. It was
practiced by the Catholic churches until the 12th century.

a.2. Ordeal of Boiling Oil- there are two version of this ordeal. In one

version, the accused parties are ordered to retrieve an item from a container of
boiling oil, with those who refused the task being found guilty. In the other version of the
trial, both the accused and the accuser have to retrieve an item from boiling oil, with the
person or persons whose hand remains unscathed being declared innocent.

a.3. Red Hot Iron Ordeal- the accused will be required to touch an extremely hot
metal nine (9) times (unless burned sooner) with his tongue. If the tongue is burned, he will
be judged guilty. In some countries, they used a hot needle instead of hot iron to tease the
lips. In this case, the bleeding of the lips is an indication of guilt.

b. Ordeal of Cold Water- this ordeal has a precedent in Code of Ur- Nammu and the Code of Hammurabi.
Under this ordeal, a man accused of sorcery is to be submerged in a stream, if he survived, he is acquitted. In the 16 th
and 17th centuries, ordeal by water was associated with witch hunts. An accused that sinks and usually drowns is
considered innocent, while body that floats indicates witchcraft. Demonologists developed inventive new theories
about how it worked. Some argued that witches float because they had renounced baptism when entering the devil’s
service.

c. Ordeal of Balance- practiced in the institute of Vishnu, India. A scale of balance is used, in one end of the
scale, the accused is placed and in the end a counterbalance.
The person will step out of the scale and listen to a judge to deliver an exhortation on the balance and get
back in. if he was found lighter than before then he should be acquitted.

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 d. Ordeal of Rice Chewing- a method of detecting deception whereby an accused will be required to take
rice (to clergy bread or cheese). If the accused failed to swallow even a single grain of concentrated rice,
he/she will be adjudged guilty.

The Ancient China used dry rice to serve as their course. If the subject fails to swallow the rice of
spit out dry, he will be deemed guilty.

e. Ordeal of Red Water (Food and Drink Ordeal)- In this method the accused will be required to run fast for
twelve (12) hours, take a cup of rice and drink dark colored water (as much as one gallon). The dark water
is believed to be sacred water. As it enters the body, it will search the heart and once it found that the
accused is innocent, it will served as an emetic and will cause the accused person to vomit the rice as
evidence of his innocence. This is also called “The Trial of the Eucharist”.

f. Ordeal of the Corsnead/ Ordeal of the Blessed Bread- a priest puts the corsnead or hallow bread in the
mouth of the accused, with various imprecations. If the accused swallowed it he was freed from
punishment.

g. The Test of the Eucharist- this was applied chiefly among the clergy and monks. When they took the hist
it was believed that God would smite the guilty with sickness or death. Others believed that if the
accused is innocent, when given a poisonous drink for him to take in, Angel Gabriel will descend from
heaven to prevent the accused from taking in the poisonous drink.

h. Ordeal of the Bier- it was an ancient belief that the slain dead could point out the killer. In England, it was
usual for the accused to approached the bier on the which the corpse lays. In view of the witness, the
wounds of the victim were observed to see if they began to bleed again.

i. Ordeal of the Cross/Trial of the Cross- it was introduced in the Early Middle Ages by the church in an
attempt to discourage judicial duels among the Germanic peoples. As with judicial duels, the accuser has
to undergo the ordeal together with the accused. They will stand on either side of a cross and will stretch
out their hands horizontally. The one to first lower his arms will lose. This ordeal was prescribed by
Charlemagne. On the other hand, a decree of Lothar I abolished the ordeal so as to avoid the mockery of
Christ.

j. Trial of the Waxen Shirt- the accused was dressed in a cloth covered with wax and walked barefoot over
coals of fire. If he was hurt by the fire and wax did not melt, he was considered innocent.

k. The Test of the Axe-In Greece, a suspended axe was spun in the center of a group of suspects.
Whosoever was in line with the blade when the axe stops was supposed to be the guilty as pointed by the
divine providence.

l. The Test of the Candle- This ordeal was used in Burma. The accuser and the accused are each given
identical candles which are lighted at the same time. The candle that burns longer determines who
speaks the truth.

m. The “Hereditary Sieve”- Dr. Hans Gross mentioned this ordeal in his famous book on Criminal
Investigation in which beans were thrown into a sieve as the name of each suspect was called. The
deception criteria were described as follows---“If the beans jumps out of the sieve, the owner of the
name pronounced is innocent, if the bean remains in the sieve, the person named is the thief.”

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 n. Donkey’s Tail (Ash Tail) Ordeal- A method of ordeal where all accused person are instructed to select
cage with a donkey. They will then strike the donkey’s tail and whoever’s chosen donkey cries first is
supposed to be adjudged guilty. Then once one of the donkeys cries, they will all be requested to get out
of the cage and show their hands. The true test is whosoever bears a clean hand is the guilty person. This
is based on the fact that the donkey’s tail is coated with a lampblack. Evidence showing a clean hand
would indicate that the person did not hold it tight and did not really strike the donkey to avoid
detection.

o. Ordeal of the Tiger- practiced in Siam, the accused and the accuser are placed on a cage of a tiger: if the
tiger spare one of them is considered innocent.

Other Countries Practicing Ordeal

Madagascar- legal authorities practiced trial by ordeal. The supposed criminal was made to drink a decoction, a
poisonous fruit called “tangena”, a small dose is fatal.

Borneo- the accuser and accused were presented with shellfish placed on a plate. An irritating fluid was then poured
on the shellfish and the litigant whose shellfish moved first was adjudged the winner.

Nigeria- the priest greased a cock’s feather and pierced the tongue of the accused. If the feather passed through the
tongue easily, the accused was deemed innocent. If not, the accused is guilty. Another method practiced into the
same country is the pouring of corrosive liquid into the eyes of the accused who was supposed to be unharmed if
innocent. Pouring of boiling oil over the hand of the accused with the usual requisites for guilt or innocence is also
practiced.

Ayur Veda- “Hindu book health and science” the earliest known reference of the methods for detecting deception.

Two Other Hindu Books

1. Dharmasastra of Gautama (Nature of Lying)
No guilt is incurred in giving false evidence in the case the life of man depends thereon.
2. Vasistha of Dharmasastra (Justifying Lying)
Men may speak on untruth when lies are in danger or the loss of their whole property is imminent.

Important personalities and events in the evolution of polygraphy

The polygraph, or most commonly known as lie detector, has been in existence in police science many, many
years ago. Tracing back its beginning, one may find out that there are several persons instrumental in the
development of the polygraph instrument as we know it today- recording changes in respiration, galvanic skin
response (GSR) or electrodermal activity (EDA) and cardiovascular activity.

Daniel Defoe

In 1730, a year before Daniel Defoe died, he wrote an essay entitled “An Effectual Scheme for the Immediate
Preventing of the Street Robberies and Suppressing All other Disorders of the Night” where he suggested the use of
the pulse to detect deception. Defoe’s essay called upon the attention of many scientists to employ medical science
in the fight against crime, he recommended that taking the pulse of the suspicious fellow was a practical effective and
human method for distinguishing truthfulness from lying.

Angelo Mosso

In 1878, science came to the aid of the truth seeker through the research of an Italian Psychologist Angelo
Mosso, pursued in his studies of emotion and fear and its influence for measuring blood pressure and pulse change
called a “PLETHYSMOGRAPH.” He also found out that the urination in blood pressure and the circulation of the blood
in the brain during fear is far greater than those resulting from the effect of mere noises and sounds.
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 Mosso devised a scientific cradle which was designed to measure the flow of blood while a person lays on his
back in a prone position, so that the blood flow became concentrated first in one part of the body and then in
another. The cradle consisted of a large, heavy table and a deplicate knife-edge fulcrum at the center. A heavy
wooden plank rested securely and evenly on the fulcrum. A heavy metal counterpoise, which could be adjusted up or
down was fastened vertically in the middle of the plank and secured with two metal bars at each end of the plank in
order to prevent from swaying. When the subject experienced emotion, the blood would rush to the head and throw
the cradle out of balance which in turn would be recorded on a revolving smoked drum. A rubber cuff was also
wrapped around the subject’s foot and connected by a tube to a tambour recording pulse fluctuations.

Cesare Lombroso

In 1895, Cesare Lombroso, an Italian Criminologist and tutor of Angelo Mosso, published the second edition
of his book entitled L ‘HOMME CRIMINEL (The Criminal Men) where he related the use of plethysmograph and
sphygmograph during interrogation of suspects. He made a modification of the plethysmograph resulting in the
hydrospygmograph. Lombroso applied the blood pressure pulse test in actual criminal suspects. The suspect’s fist
would be immersed in a water filled tank then sealed across the top of the tank by a rubber membrane. The
pulsations of the blood in the fist were transferred to the water and the changes in water level were carried over
an air-filled tube which will be recorded on the revolving smoke drum.

He was accorded the distinction of being the first person to utilize an instrument for the purpose of detecting
lies. The first person to use polygraph technique in a suspect.

Francis Galton

Francis Galton introduced the word association test in 1879. A group of words would be presented to a
patient with intervals long enough to allow the patient to utter his first thought to each word. Several irrelevant
questions were inserted in every question relevant to the crime committed. Guilty examinee, when confronted with a
relevant word, will suffer from an inner conflict which may be manifested either by a delay in reaction, more rapid
reaction time, repetition of relevant word, blocking in response or uncoordinated physical movements.

George Sticker

Sticker believed that the origin of the galvanic skin phenomenon was under the influence of the exciting
mental impressions and that the will has no effect upon it. Sticker made the earliest application of
psychogalvanometer to forensic problems.

He made the first galvanograph for detecting deception based from the work of his predecessor and
introduced the method of detecting from the galvanic impression on the chart tracing. He worked on the influence
and relation of the sweat glands to skin resistance.

Sir James Mackenzie

An English Clinician and Cardiologist, constructed the clinical polygraph in 1892, an instrument once used in
medical examinations with the capability to simultaneously record undulated line, tracings of the vascular pulses
(radial, venous, and arterial), by way of a stylus onto a revolving drum of smoked paper. In 1906, he refined his
clinical polygraph of 1892 when he devised the clinical ink polygraph with the help of Lancashine watchmaker,
Sebastian Shaw. This instrument used a clockwork mechanism for the paper rolling and time-marker movements and
it produced ink recordings of physiological functions that were easier to acquire and to interpret.

Veraguth Otto

He is said to be the first person to use the term psychogalvanic reflex. Veraguth was the first scientist to use
the word association test with galvanometer. In 1907, he described his observation on galvanic phenomena and

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emotions that there was an ascending galvanometer curve during the presentation of relevant stimuli versus the rest
of the curve on non-crucial stimuli. He believed that the electrical phenomenon is due to the activity of sweat glands.

Vittorio Benussi

In March 1913, he presented a paper before the second meeting of the Italian Society for Psychology in
Rome. In his paper, he described how he recorded the subjects pattern using a “Marey Pneumograph” noting the
changes in inspiration/ expiration ratio during deception. In addition to respiration, he also included the recording of
heart rate and blood pressure curve in detection of deception and probably the first person to record more than one
physiological response.
He discovered a method for calculating the quotient of the inhalation to exhalation as means of verifying the
truth and detecting deception of the subject. He demonstrated the changes in systolic blood pressure were of greater
value in determining deception than in changes in respiration.

Dr. William M. Marston

Marston was credited as the creator of the systolic blood pressure test used. In 1915, he employed in an
attempt to detect deception during questioning, using a standard blood pressure cuff and stethoscope. It required
repeated inflation of the pressure cuff to obtain reading at intervals during examination, which became one
component of the modern polygraph, this was called discontinuous technique. Marston wife Elizabeth Holloway
Marston, was also involved in the development of the systolic blood pressure test. According to Marston’s sons, it
was his mother Elizabeth who suggested to him that when she got mad or excited, her blood pressure seemed to
climb.

In 1938, he published a book, “The Lie Detector Test” wherein he documented the theory and used of the
device. In 1938, he appeared in advertising by the Gillette company claiming that the polygraph showed Gillette
razors were better than the competition. He failed several times to apply his technique in investigating a kidnapping
case; thus he went on to pursue other activities under the pseudonym “Charles Moulton”, and created what would
be a famous comic strip character called “Wonder Woman”. Later, Dr. Marston’s mentor, Hugo Munsterberg,
suggested the forensic application of the word association technique in detecting deception.

Harold Burtt

In 1918, Burtt suggested that the changes in respiration were an indication of deception. He was able to
determine that the changes in respiration were of less value in the detection of deception than the changes in blood
pressure. The results obtained by Benussi were partially confirmed by Burtt.

Luigi Galvani (1791)

An Italian psychologist who developed the galvanic skin reflex. The GSR reflected emotional changes by
measuring changes in person’s skin resistance to electricity.

John A. Larson

A Canadian psychologist employed in Berkeley Police Department devise an instrument capable of

continuously recording blood pressure changes, pulse rate and respiration he also developed the Breadboard Lie
Detector which is now polygraph apparatus into a portable form.

His instrument differed from Marston’s as is provided continuous readings, rather than discontinuous
readings. Larson was considered as the “Father of Scientific Lie Detection” for being the first person to verify the
truth and detect deception in a more specific way. Larson was credited as forerunner of modern polygraph, and also
considered as the “Father of Polygraphy”.

Leonarde Keeler

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 Keeler who had gained firsthand experienced in polygraph interrogations as a result of working with John
Larson at the Berkeley Police Department to device a polygraph that used inked pens for recording the relative
changes in subjects blood pressure, pulse rate and respiratory patterns, thus eliminating the need for smoking the
paper and then preserving it with shellac. He assisted John Larson during his early polygraph work. John Larson’s
instrument was Leonard Keeler first instrument
An American Psychologist invented a more satisfactory instrument than the one used by Larson. Later on
Keeler made additional changes in the instrument, and at the time of his death in 1949 the Keeler Polygraph included,
in addition to units for recordings blood pressure-pulse and respiration changes, a galvanometer for recording what is
known as the galvanic skin reflex or electrodermal responses generally referred to as the GSR. He also introduced the
“card test and the peak of tension test.” (Father of Modern Polygraphy)

Ruckmick

In 1936, the term psychogalvanic reflex used by Veraguth was repudiated by Ruckmick and proposed the
term electrodermal response. However, Veraguth believed that the electrodermal phenomena was attribute not to
vascular changes in the skin but to the activity of the sweat glands.

John E. Reid

Reid was an attorney, polygraph examiner and former member of the Chicago Police Scientific Crime
Detection Laboratory and Director of John E. Reid and Associates. In 1950, he developed the “control question” which
consisted of a known lie and incorporated it into the relevant-irrelevant technique. In addition to the recording of
breathing, GSR and cardio, he developed a means of recording arm and leg movements. Reid also developed the
guilt-complex test to be administered to overly responsive examinee.

He developed improvement with the conventional polygraph by incorporating muscular resistance his device
was known as the Reid polygraph. (Father of Control)

Cleve Backster

Backster, a polygraph expert born in 1924, developed the so called Backster Zone Comparison Technique in
1960. Backster developed the “psycological set theory and the anticlimax dampening concept”. He also developed
and introduced the “quantification system of chart analysis” which permits the examiner to score the charts
numerically according to standard rules.

Richard O. Arther

First polygraphist to record simultaneously on regular basis the chest and abdominal breathing patterns. In
1965, Arther, Chief Associate of John E. Reid and Associates from September 1951 to August 1953, introduced the
Arther ll polygraph instrument which contains a “stimulus marker”. He developed an improvised polygraph machine
with two galvanic skin resistance. The instrument is capable of recording the beginning and ending of question and
the moment the examinee answered.

OTHER CONTRIBUTORS FOR THE EVOLUTION OF POLYGRAPHY

American Polygraph Association
In 1966, the American Polygraph Association (APA) was established. At present it consists of over 2500
members dedicated to providing a valid and reliable means to verify truth and establish the highest standard of
moral, ethical, and professional conduct in the polygraph field.
The APA continues to be the leading polygraph professional association, establishing standards of ethical
practices, techniques, instrumentation, research, and advance training and continuing educational programs.

University of Utah Research

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 The University of Utah researchers introduced computer assisted polygraph techniques in the early 1980’s,
and they remain at the forefront of developments in instrumentation and analytic methods for computerized
polygraph system. The methods for quantification of physiological reaction are based on more than 30 years of
scientific and field experiences by Dr. David C. Raskin and Dr. John C. Kircher. In 1998 they developed the Computer
Assisted Polygraph System (CAPS) which incorporated the first algorithm to be used for evaluating physiological data
collected for diagnostic purposes.

PolyScore and Objective Scoring System

In 1993, statisticians Dr. Dale E. Olsen and John Harris of John Hopskins University Applied Physics Laboratory,
Maryland completed a software program called the Polyscore which used sophisticated mathematical algorithm to
analyze the polygraph data and to estimate a probability or degree of deception or truthfulness in a subject.

Department of Energy
In 2003, the U.S. Department of Energy commissioned a review committee of the National Academy of
Science to study the scientific evidence on the polygraph.
Withstanding more than a century of research, development and widespread use, the polygraph examination
remains the most effective means of verifying the truth and detecting deception.

Dr. Joseph F. Kurbis (1970)- of Furdham University in New York City is the first researcher who used potential
computer application for the purpose of polygraph chart analysis.

Physiological Aspects of Polygraphy

Physiology
The science of the mechanical, physical, bioelectrical and biochemical functions of humans in good health,
their organs, and the cells of which they are composed. In short, study of human body.

Psychophysiology
The study of the relationship or the effect of the mind to the body.

Human Body System

1. Nervous System/Neurological System- “Activator of the body system”
a. CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM- it consist of the brain (Chief of Staff) and spinal cord. It is the processing
area of information.
b. PERIPHERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM- it is responsible for providing sensory information to the central nervous
system and carry motor commands out to the tissue body.
b.1 Somatic Nervous System- control voluntary command.
b.2 Autonomic Nervous System- which acts as a self-regulating response of the body, controls
involuntary motor commands.

Two Divisions of ANS

b.2.1 Sympathetic Nervous System-a.k.a. the “flight or flight mechanism”
 Increases alertness, stimulates tissue, and prepare the body to quick response to
unusual situation.
b.2.2 Parasympathetic Nervous System- a.k.a. the rest and response system
 It is functionally antagonistic to the sympathetic nervous system. Its role is to
maintain the homeostasis of the body which is necessary for normal functioning.
Therefore, it follows that whenever the sympathetic activities the parasympathetic
follows to re-establish the chemical balance of the body.

2. Circulatory System- responsible for the distribution of the blood.

3. Respiratory System- responsible for the taking of air into the lungs and also expelling carbon dioxide.

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 4. Excretory System- external covering of the body consisting essentially of Epidermis, Dermis, and the
Hypodermis.

Homeostasis- is complex interactive regulatory by which the body strives to maintain a state of internal
equilibrium.

When the sympathetic nervous system is activated, it immediately prepares the body for fight or flight by
causing the adrenal glands to secrete hormones known as epinephrine and norepinephrine and the blood will be
distributed to those areas of the body where it is most needed to meet the emergency.

Fight, Flight, Freeze- are the three stereotypic behavioral responses to threat, sometimes simply called F3.
The physiological responses concomitant to these behaviors are the same, namely mobilizing bodily resources for an
expenditure of energy, and narrowing attention and focus to the features of the threat.

Epinephrine- is the hormonal stimulator of the sympathetic nervous system. It acts to constrict peripheral
blood flow, raise blood pressure, increase cardiac activity, promote metabolic activity through the release of glucose,
and inhibit digestive processes. It is considered a psychogenic hormone because it alters psychological processes
when released in large quantities, such as when under stress. It is produced in the adrenal medulla, located
immediately above each kidney. In British, it is called adrenaline.

Norepinephrine- is a hormone secreted by the adrenal gland. It works alongside epinephrine/adrenaline to

give the body sudden energy in times of stress, known as the “fight or flight” responses. It is called noradrenaline in
British.

Hypothalamus- is a series of groups of nerve cells of the brain that control the entire endocrine-hormonal
system.

If threatening, the hypothalamus immediately activates the sympathetic nervous system that causes
physiological changes and has psychological impact as well. These physiological reactions such as changes in
breathing pattern, skin response and cardiovascular activity are recorded by the instrument for interpretation.
Polygraph testing uses questions like relevant and comparison questions for numerical comparison and
interpretation.

This shows that every reaction that the subject inhibits while undergoing the polygraph examination, is being
controlled by the central nervous system.

Psychological Aspects of Polygraphy

Emotion
The word emotion dates back to 1579, when it was adapted from the French word emouvior, which means
“to stir from up”.
It is defined as an agitation, disturbance or tumultuous physical or social movement constituting a departure
from the calm state of the organism as includes strong feeling, and impulse to overt action and internal bodily
changes in respiration, circulation, and granular reaction.
Based on research Paul Ekman classified the six basic emotions: anger, disgust, fear, happiness, sadness and
surprise.

Fear- an emotional response to specific danger that appears to beyond a person defensive power.

Stimulus- a force of emotion reaching the organism and excite deceptors. In short is a force that arouses the
organism of any part to activity.

Deception- an act of deceiving or misleading usually accompanied by lying.

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Detection- an act of discovery existence pressure or fact of something hidden or obscure.

TRUTH AND LIE

Truth defined

The deliberate, complete and objective communication whether verbal, written or gesture, of the
recollection of a person, place, thing and/or event which the communication believes to exist, have existed or
occurred.

Lie defined

The deliberate communication to another, either verbally, written or by gesture, of something that the
communicator knows or suspects to be not true.

It is the omission of information, with deliberate intent to deceive and mislead someone who requests the
truth.

Lying- an uttering or conveying falsehood or creating a false statement.

The foundation of Polygraph Technique

Theory and Concept
The Polygraph technique uses the principle that the bodily functions of a person are influenced by his mental
state.
Telling a lie usually an emotional experience. A conscious act of lying causes conflict in the mind of the
examinee, which produces an emotion of fear or anxiety, manifested by fluctuations in pulse rate, blood pressure,
breathing and perspiration.

Types of Lie
1. Big Lie- a lie which attempts to trick the victim into believing something major which will likely be construed
by the victim’s common sense or by some information that he already possessed.
2. Bluffed Lie- a lie that pretends to have a capability or intention which one does not actually possess. Bluffing
is an act of deception that is rarely seen as immoral when taken in the context of a game (i.e., deception
consented to in advance by the players).
3. Emergency Lie- a strategic lie told when the truth may not be told because harm to a third party would result.
4. Lie of Exaggeration- a lie often used to exaggerate things in order to obtain or get some advantage.
Exaggeration occurs when the most fundamental aspect of statement are true but only to a certain degree. It
is also described as “stretching the truth” or making something to appear more powerful, meaningful or real
than it actually is.
5. Lie of Fabrication- is something made up or a misrepresentation of a truth. It is often used by the subject in
an interview.
6. Lie of Omission- a lie used by omitting an important fact, deliberately leaving another person with a
misconception.
7. Misleading/ Dissembling Lie- it is one when there is no outright lie but still retains the purpose of getting
someone to believe in an untruth. Dissembling likewise describes the presentation of facts in a way that is
literally true but intentionally misleading.
8. Noble Lie- is on that would normally discord if uncovered but offers some benefit to the liar and assists in an
orderly society therefore potentially beneficial to others.
9. Puffery Lie- is an exaggerated claim typically found in an advertising and publicity announcements. For
example, “the highest quality at a lower price”. Such statement is unlikely to be true but cannot be proven
false and so do not violate trade laws.
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 10. Lie of Compliment or False Reassurance- a lie intended to please others. For example, “that looks good to
you” or “everything is going to be alright”.
11. White Lie- a lie that would cause only relatively minor discord if it were uncovered and typically offers some
benefit to the hearer. It is often used to maintain harmony of friendship, in the home or in the office.
12. Red Lie- a lie used to destroy the ideologies by means of propaganda which is common in communist
countries.
13. Malicious Lie- a lie usually used to mislead or a dishonesty intended to obstruct justice.

Variations of Lie

1. Derail- change the subject of discussion in order to avoid the truth. (For example, one might feign being
offended in order to stop a conversation about one’s questionable actions.)
2. Confuse- quibble or confuse the issue, or deliberately use ambiguity in order to deceive or mislead.
3. Misinform- invent or perpetrate a false story with the intent to deceive or mislead.

Types of Liar
1. Panic Liar- one who lies in order to avoid the consequence of confession. He or she is afraid of
embarrassment to love ones and is a serious blow to his or her ego.
2. Occupational Liar- is someone who has lied for years. This person is a practical liar and lies when it has a
higher pay-off than telling the truth.
3. Tournament Liar- one who loves to lie and is excited by the challenges of not being detected. He views an
interview as another contest and wants to win. He lies because it is the only weapon remaining with which to
fight. This person convicted but will not give anyone the satisfaction of hearing him or her to confess. He
wants people to believe that the law is punishing an innocent person.
4. Ethological Liar- is one who is taught not to be a squealer. This person loves to interrogate to be interrogated
and has taken a creed either personal or with others, that he or she will never reveal the truth, the creed of
underworld gangs.
5. Psychopathic Liar- this person has no conscience. He or she shows no regret for his dishonest actions and no
manifestation of guilt. This is the most difficult type of liar because he is a good actor.
6. Pathological Liar- this person who cannot distinguish what is right from wrong. These are those persons who
are mentally sick.
7. Black Liar- one who enjoys pretending. A liar of this type is also known as hypocrite.

Mythomania- it is the condition where there is an excessive or abnormal propensity for lying and exaggerating.

Signs of Lying
Verbal Signs of Deception
The determination of deception through the words uttered by the subject is somehow difficult because
people can easily manipulate or control their verbal expressions. Accordingly, the least dependable signs of lying
are the ones which a person has the most control, such as words, because a person can rehearse their lies.

1. Speech Patterns

When a person is lying one might notice a higher pitch in tone, stuttering, clearing the throat and frequents
pauses. The person might use filler words such as “uh, er, oh” and um” during moments of hesitation as lies are
put together. Liars also will cut out contractions, using “was not” instead of “wasn’t” or “did not” rather than
“didn’t.” It is also typical for a person to get tongue-tied and lose his thoughts in mid-sentence.

2. Repeating Questions

As lies are formulated, the person needs time to think. Instead of giving a straight answer, they usually repeat
the question, or there may have a slight pause between answers. The person might also ask to repeat the question
just asked, even though he heard it the first time. These are the tactics that liars used to buy time before responding.

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3. Strong Denial

Defensive behavior, denial and trying to make the other person feel guilty might also be used as the liar tries
to create empathy. One might hear things like, “I would never lie” as the person tries to convince the interviewer that
he is innocent. Most people caught in the act of lying will flat out deny it and even become angry. Everyone tells lies
sometimes, so anyone who say they “never lie” is probably lying.

4. Changing the Subject or Story

A swift subject change is another of the verbal signs of lying. The person might also tell a story that lacks
details. If the story starts to change or becomes different at different times, this is strong indication of lying. Liars will
also contradict themselves, making statements that do not completely make sense. If suspicion occurs, press on
asking questions and look for details that do not fit together.

5. Unwillingness to Cooperate

Lies do not want to be found out and will significantly more uncooperative than someone who is telling the
truth. As they are pushed to speak, there are more opportunities to slip up, which might result to frustration or
anger. However, in some accusations, anger is just a common response. There are some subjects who are overly
polite in order to mislead the interviewer that they are telling the truth.

Verbal Clues
Verbal clues to deception include not only the spoken word, but also gestures of acknowledgement, such as
nod of the head. When a deceptive person avoids a truthful answer by supplying evasive answer, he or she does so as
an attempt to reduce the inner conflict created by not telling the truth.
a. Methods of responding to the question- many clues to deception can be found in the way the respondent
answer the question. Truthful people tend to be direct, untruthful people tend to be circumspect about the
answer.
b. Length of time before giving response- in general, truthful persons answer question quickly; untruthful
persons take their time in giving response. There may be an awkward silence, or the respondent may use a
delaying tactic, such as “who me?” or “why should I do”.
c. Repetition of question- repeating the question is another means for the deceiver to gain time to frame his or
her answer. The question may be repeated verbatim, or the respondent may frame the answer with a
request the question. Example; “what did you say again? Or are you asking me if I took kickbacks? A truthful
subject does not have to contemplate his or her answer.
d. Fragmented or incomplete sentence- a liar will often speak in fragmented or incomplete sentences. This is
usually because he or she has commenced the answer, and then thought better of it. Statements such as “I. . .
I. . . can’t think. . it seems to me . . . can be clues of lying.
e. Being overly polite- most people, when wrongly accused of something they didn’t do, don’t take the
accusation lightly. Anger is a common response to an unjust accusation, as well as answering the statement
with a “no”. Untruthful subjects are more likely to be polite to the accuser, using flattering terms such as “sir”
or “maam”. The suspect who has been accused and is untruthful will often say, “sir, no offense to you, but I
didn’t do it”.
f. Oaths- untruthful persons will frequently recite oaths, such as “I swear to God I didn’t do it” or “I swear on
my Fathers grave”. Most truthful person do not need to swear or affirm; they are vehement in their denials.
g. Clarity of response- truthful persons tend to be very clear in their response, while untruthful persons tend to
mumble, talk softly, and diffuse their answers. Such responses are to avoid the stress caused by an untruthful
response; the liar is hedging. In that way, if caught in a lie, the earlier “soft” response may aid in diffusing the
lie.
h. Use of words- truthful subject have no trouble denying the allegation in specific terms, while untruthful one
will have problems with the wording used.
i. Assertiveness- truthful people will respond directly without waiver or qualification; untruthful people tend to
respond indirectly with waivers and qualification.
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 j. Inconsistencies- liars get caught up in their own web of deceit.
k. Slips of the tongue- liars, as Freud discovered, quite often slip up and reveal themselves through a “slip of the
tongue”.
l. Tirades- may be in direct proportion to the stress generated in the lie, and occur at a time of anger or other
strong emotion.
m. Pauses- pauses in speech patterns may be one of the more reliable clues to deception. The examiner should
evaluate pauses in speech that are too long, too frequent, or which occur at inappropriate places more
closely.
n. Speed of speech- peoples who are nervous or upset frequently increase the speed of their speech-words
tends to run together and the conversation can be disjointed. A pattern of increased speed of speech during
the relevant portion of the questioning could indicate deception.

NON-VERBAL SIGNS OF DECEPTION

The nonverbal signs encompass body movements or gestures of persons while being asked a series of
questions. Body gestures or signals are difficult to control and considered the most reliable clues to lying.

Ray Birdwhistell, an anthropologist, pioneered the original study of non-verbal communication. In face to face
conversation, verbal competent is less than 35% and non-verbal component is more than 65%. Aside from that, a
person can make and recognize around 250,000 facial expressions. However, not all of these are effective signs of
deception. There are only eight common body gestures associated with lying.

1. Mouth Cover
A lying person tends to cover his mouth with several fingers when lying. The human brain causes this
and the person does this subconsciously to hide the words just being said.
2. Nose Touch
If the person speaking is not suffering from cold or fever and keeps touching his nose while talking, he
is lying. It has a scientific explanation that once a person tells a lie, a chemical named catecholamine is released and
causes the tissues inside the nose to swell due to the mental pressure. The secretion of chemical is not visible but the
swelling creates an itching that urges the person to touch the nose. The same feeling also happens during anxiety or
annoyance. Generally, it can just be a very quick one or at a few times.
3. Itchy Nose
Some people while telling a lie get busy with scratching nose. Usually, they do it to disguise their
mouth cover or nose touch gesture.
4. Eye Rub
This is another lying gesture. It is the brain’s attempt to help a liar to avoid the face to face look
during the utterance of lying words. Men do this gesture more and women show this gesture comparatively less.
5. Ear Grab
People show this gesture (touching the ear lobe) once they suffer from anxiety. A good number of
liars show this gesture to avoid anxiety.
6. Neck Scratch
Some people start scratching their neck by their index finger of writing hand while lying, especially
once the verbal language contradicts with fact.
7. Collar Pull
Lies cause a tingling sensation in neck tissues and a liar feels an urge to rub that place. This is why
some people pull their collar while lying. At the same time, many liars start sweating at their neck region.
8. Fingers in the Mouth
This is an unconscious gesture of liars when lying. By showing this gesture, a liar wants to send a
reassuring signal of guarantee about his false statement.

Non-verbal Clues
Non-verbal clues are caused by the same reason that verbal clues are; increased stress. Non-verbal clues
include pattern in the body movements as well as certain facial expressions.

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 a. Emblems- are expressions made with the body, whose meanings are clearly understood. The universal
“thumbs up sign” is an emblem, as well as the circled finger and thumb to indicate okay.
b. Illustrators- are motions, primarily by the hands, to illustrate a point jabbing your finger in the air.
c. Manipulators- are mostly habitual behavior of touching one’s self. Manifestation include grooming the hair,
wringing the hands, picking imaginary lint from a coat.
d. Breathing- although an involuntary movement, is very much affected by stress. Many persons, under
prolonged periods of stress, hyperventilate.
e. Sweating- excessive sweating could be very well indicate an involuntary reflex with deception.
f. Frequent Swallowing- a dry mouth frequently accompanies deep emotion. Often the witness is not aware of
increased efforts a swallowing.

Scientific Lie Detection Techniques

1. Methods involving the use of scientific devices that record psycho- physiological responses- these methods
include:
a. Word Association Technique
A list of stimulus and non-stimulus words are read to the subject who is instructed to answer as
quickly as possible. The answers to the questions may be a “yes” or “no”. The important factor is the time
of response in relation to stimulus or non-stimulus words.

(Francis Galton- he developed the much acclaimed psychological test known as the Word Association Test and which
was later developed by Dr. Carl Guzrav.)

b. Psychological Stress Evaluation (Voice Stress Analysis)

The psychological stress evaluator (PSE) detects, measures, and graphically displays the voice
modulations that we cannot hear.

Allen Bell and Charles Mc Quiston- American inventors who developed a device called Psychological Stress
Evaluator. The instrument detects slight trembling in the voice, which may be interpreted to determine if person is
telling the truth)

c. Polygraph Method
The polygraph examination, or much commonly known as lie detector test, is just one of the lie detection
techniques available today. In this process, the examiner focuses in the formulation of the questions and on
observing the responses and reactions of the subject to every question that will be propounded to him. The
instrument, on the other hand, will be the one responsible to detect and record changes in physiological
responses of the subject with focus on cardiovascular activity, skin resistance and respiration.

2. Methods involving the use of substances that “inhibit the inhibitor” such as:
a. Administration of “truth serum”

(Dr. Edward Mandel House- a U.S psychiatrist and diplomat who introduced truth serum as a method of
detecting deception.)

Drug Use:
 Hyoscine hydrobromide- given hypodermically in repeated doses until a state of delirium is induced.
 Sodium Amytal
 Penthotal
 Seconal and other barbiturates
 Methanine, methyl pheridate
 Droperidol and Scopolamine
 Trichloroethylene Anesthetic Drug

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 b. Narcoanalysis (also called Narcosynthesis)- Psychiatric sodium amytal/sodium pentothal-drug causes
depression of the inhibitory mechanism of the brain and the subjects talks freely.
c. Intoxication with alcohol
The apparent stimulation effect of alcohol is really the result of control mechanism of the brain, so
alcohol, like the truth serum and narcoanalytic drugs “inhibit the inhibitor”.
This method of detecting deception has been found effective by some investigators in obtaining facts
from person who are somehow reluctant in giving information. The law enforcer will either be the one to ask
for a drink or if not, somebody whom he thinks would be credible enough to do the same. Hard liquor (35%
45%) is the one usually preferred because of its high volume of alcohol content although beer and other soft
liquor may also be used. Once the person starts to become talkative or about to lose his inhabitation,
questions will then be asked of him and normally, the tendency is for the subject to just reply without
minding the possible implications of what he is telling.

In Vino Veritas- “in wine there is truth”

The use of this method in criminal investigation is not advisable because of the following reason:
 Administration of this drug is dangerous- if not properly administered, it may kill the subject or
damage the brain or spinal in such a manner that the subject will turned like a vegetable.
 Unreliable result- the information gathered from the subject is not reliable to be true. If the subject
gave false information before the test, he is also likely to give false information under narcosis.
 It deprives the subject of his own free will to speak freely.
 Information taken from the subject under narcosis is not admissible in court as evidence.

3. Hypnosis (Hypnotic Induction)

Is the alteration of consciousness and concentration in which the subject manifests a heightened of
suggestibility while awareness is maintained.
Among the scientific methods of detecting deception, this is one of the most unreliable means
considering that the subject in this test will be under the control of the hypnotist. The subject in this test will
be completely deprived of his free will to think and speak freely thus, all information obtained are completely
inadmissible as evidence in court.

(Anthon Mesmer- in 1778 he was the first one to introduce hypnotism as a method of detecting
deception.)

4. Scientific observation and Interrogation

Signs and symptoms of Emotional Tension:
 Color change: blushing or red color face indicates anger and humiliation. Paleness of the face is
indicative of tension, fear and anxiety.
 Sweating: sweating in an air-conditions or well-ventilated room is a sign of emotional tension but
maybe indicating anger, humiliation and nervousness. Cold damp perspiration is a manifestation of
shock fear and anxiety.
 Inability to look straight at the interrogator’s eyes is a symptom of guilt although not conclusive when
the subject was observed to have constant movement and winking of the eyes avoiding to look
“straight” at the interrogator’s eyes as if the interrogator might see something in the eyes of the
subject that will manifest his guilt.
 Heart rate and pulse beat: the pulse beat can be observed at the neck, where there is an increased in
the pulsation of the carotid artery which almost always synchronize with the increase in heart rate. It
is indicative of guilt, nervousness and fear.
 Breathing: the holding of the breath is an indication of tension especially when critical questions were
asked, and then followed by a sudden, explosive and longer expiration.
 Dryness of the mouth and throat: there is dryness of the mouth and throat because of the reflex
inhibition of the salivary glands and it can be observed repeated swallowing and wetting of the lips. In

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 the male, there is an upward downward movement of the “Adam’s Apple” in repeated swallowing. It
is an indication of tension and nervousness but maybe a symptom of guilt.
 Peculiar and Unusual Expression: the “not feeling well” and “not that I remember” are sometimes the
remarks of the subject probably to avoid divulging himself in the interrogation. The suspect who
maybe nervous may try to prove his innocence by swearing to the truthfulness of his assertion. He
may be repeatedly utter, “I swear to God that I am telling the truth”

Unusual Behavior
 Clenching of the fist or hands indicate anger
 The placing of the upper extremities tightly at one or both sides of the chest may indicate emotional
tension of the subject.
 Crying while being investigated maybe indicative of tension, depression, anger, humiliation and
sometimes a demonstration to prove his innocence about the crime in dispute.
 Other behavior such as crossing and uncrossing the leg over the other, tapping the table, rubbing the
face or hair, twisting handkerchief or clothing, snapping the fingers, biting the fingernails,
manipulation of any object and other body movements observed may indicate emotional tension,
nervousness, anger and sometimes mental disturbances.

However, there are new sophisticated techniques of detecting deception, these include the following.
1. Brain Waves- has been used in neurophysiological for decades to uncover processes in the brain. One type of
brain waves called Event-Related Potentials (ERPs) is of potential interest in lie detection. ERPs are recorded
by sensors placed on the scalp and can reveal the timing and general location of electrical activity in the brain
elicited by the presentation of sounds, words, text and pictures. It has been shown that the ERPs can reveal
whether an individual has guilty knowledge of crime related information when it is placed in a list of other
information that is unrelated to the crime.
Brain waves have been used in neurophysiology for decades to uncover processes in the brain. One
type of brain waves called Event-Related Potentials (ERPs) is of potential interest in lie detection. ERPs are
recorded by sensor placed on the scalp and can reveal the timing and general location of electrical activity in
the brain elicited by the presentation of sounds, words, text and pictures. It has been shown that the ERPs
can reveal whether an individual has guilty knowledge of crime related information when it is placed in a list
of other information that is unrelated to the crime.

2. Brain Imagery- a leading candidate for technology for lie detection is Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
(FMRI). An fMRI is a powerful agnet and sophisticated software that can track the brain’s use of blood over
time. It is assumed that more blood is used in particular regions of the brain when they are active than when
they are inactive. The hypothesis for lie detection is that the sequence of the brain activations will be
different between lying and truth telling.

3. Eye tracking- the pattern of a person’s eye movements over an image can reveal whether the person has
seen the image before. This is especially true for photos of faces, but has also been shown for pictures of
scenes. Movement of the eyes can be monitored by illuminating them with an eye-safe infrared light which
creates a reflection that can be detected by a special camera. A software triangulates the reflection to
calculate where the eyes are focused on an image, and tracks the focal point as the eyes move. Specially
designed algorithms use the eye movement information to determine whether the image is familiar or
unfamiliar. Research has found accuracy above 85% for recognition of familiar faces, with lower accuracy for
other types of stimuli. While the technology is non-contact, the rigorous testing protocol limits its usefulness
in a covert capacity. This technology approaching maturity and may be available to law enforcement agencies
in the near term.

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 4. Facial Analysis- research over the last two decades has suggested that short duration facial expression can
reveal concealed emotions, and have implications for the detection of lies.

Inability to look straight in the eye or what we called GAZE AVERSION is the most prevalent signs of lying.
So if someone, cannot look straight in your eye during a confrontation. That can be a sign that he or she is
telling a lie.

Polygraph Instruments
1. Cardio-Sphygmograph
It was designed to detect changes in the blood pressure and pulse rate of the subject. It is also made up
of the following:
 Blood Pressure Cuff- which is attached to the upper right arm of the subject, slightly above the branchial
artery.
 Sphygmomanometer- which is utilized to indicate the amount of air pressure inflated to the system.
 Pump bulb assembly- which inflates air into the system, also known as air pump it has a hose connecting
the blood pressure cuff through which the blood pressure changes and passed into the recording pen.
 A resonance control unit- is used for reducing or increasing the amount of air pressure to reach the brass
bellows (tambour) and thus reduce or increase the amplitude of pen excursions.
 A centering control- which is used to provide adjustment of the tracing so that the composite records
patterns would be on the guideline.
 A vent- which provides the means by which air in the system can be released.
 A recording pen unit- which is used to record the blood pressure pulse rate changes on the chart paper by
means of a five inch recording pen.

2. Pneumograph Component:
It is designed to detect changes in respiration of the subject. Its major components are the
pneumography chest assembly and the recording unit.
 Rubber convoluted tube- which is ten inches in length corrugated rubber attached to the chest and
abdominal area of the subject. One end of the tube is sealed and the other end is connected to the
instrument by a rather thick walled rubber tube considerably larger in diameter than the pneumography
tube itself, expands and contracts as the subject breathes.
 The beaded chain- another component of the pneumography assembly is used to fix in place the rubber
convoluted tube.
 The pneumograph recording unit- is made up of brass bellows, a frame, crankshaft, countershaft,
adjustable fulcrum, bearing with adjusting screw pen, vent limiting screws, pen cradle and pen centering
control. Volume changes of the chest caused by breathing are transmitted to the chest assembly to the
recording unit. These activities bellows which move forward and backward pushing the crankshaft in turn
applies a torque to the countershaft upon which the pen cradle is attached. The backward and forward
right movement is then recorded to a chart paper.

3. Galvanograph Component:
Its primary function is to detect changes or alteration in skin resistance of the subject. It is made up of the
following components:
 Finger electrode assembly which has a finger electrode and retainer bond attached to the left index and
ring finger of the subject. And a connecting plug designed to fasten the system to the polygraph machine.
 Recording pen unit which is usually 7 inches in the length.
 Amplifier unit which is made to support the galvanometer in converting electrical to mechanical current.

4. Kymograph Component:
Its primarily serves as the paper feed mechanism of the polygraph machine. It is the device that
records the different tracings by driving the paper out under a recording pen unit. It pulls or drives the chart
paper under a recording pen unit. It pulls or drives the chart paper under a recording pen simultaneously at

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 the rate of 6 to 12 inches per minute. The chart must travel at a uniform speed to facilitate valid
interpretations.
 Chart paper is driven past the recording pen shaft at a uniform speed six (6) inches per minute. Chart rolls
are approximately 100 ft. holes spaced ½ inch apart. The paper is imprinted with horizontal lines at ¼ inch
interval twenty divisions and vertical lines at 1/10 inch intervals with heavy lines at ½ inch divisions across
the paper which represents five (5) seconds of time.
 Pulse rate per minute may be computed by multiplying the number of beats counted in one divisions by
twelve (12) its major parts are as follows:
 Chart which is rolled graph paper composed of twelve (12) divisions in sixty (60) seconds run
designed to measure the rate of various body functions.
 Rubber roller which pulls the paper out of the machine.
 Paper rail guide which serves to secure or ensure the chart paper’s forward movement without
shaking.

POLYGRAPH TEST QUESTIONS

The formulation of proper test questions that will be asked on the subject is one of the crucial parts of any
polygraph examination. Errors in making decision of truthful or deception may occur due to poorly constructed
questions. Thus, the examiner should be able to properly formulate the questions to ask on the subject.

Rules to Observed in Formulating Test Questions:

A. Questions must be concise as possible.
B. Questions must be direct and simple.
C. Questions should not be in the form of an accusation.
D. All queries must be answerable by yes or no.
E. The terms to be used should be clear and understood by the subject.
F. All questions must refer to one element of a felony.
G. Question must not entail legal terminologies.
H. All questions should not interferences to one’s knowledge, religion, race, ideology or belief.

Types of Polygraph Test Questions

 Irrelevant Question- a question that has no connection with the matter under investigation and deals with
known facts that the subject cannot deny. It is designed to be emotionally neutral to examinees and usually
answerable by a “Yes”. Also called neutral question.

Characteristics of Irrelevant Question

1. It has no connection to the matter under investigation.
2. No threat to subject (usually).
3. Neither innocent nor guilty suspects have reason to lie.
4. Usually about the suspect’s background.
5. Generally used at the beginning of polygraph technique to establish a ‘norm’ for examinee, or throughout
the examination as needed to reestablish norm pattern.

Purposes of Irrelevant Question

1. Establish the professional authority in the room; that means, the examiner asks questions and the
suspect answers.
2. It allows the examiner to assess the subject’s normal behavior for this heightened emotional situation.
3. Allows the examiner to identify something he has in common with the subject to establish rapport.
4. It minimizes resistance.

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 Examples of Irrelevant Questions

 During Interview
- What is your name?
- How old are you?
- Where were you born?

 During polygraph test

- Is your first name _______?
- Were you born in the Philippines?
- Is today _______?

 Symptomatic Question- is designed to ensure that examiner will not ask un-reviewed questions or that the
examinee is not afraid that the examiner will ask un-reviewed questions.

Examples:
1. Do you believe me when I promised not to ask a question in this test I have not gone over word for word?
2. Even though I promised I would not, are you afraid I will ask a question in this test I have not gone over
word for word?
3. Do you understand that I will only ask questions I reviewed?
4. Do you believe I will not ask you questions we have not reviewed?

 Sacrifice Relevant Question- introduces the relevant question to the subject. This is designed to absorb the
response generated by the introduction of relevant question in the series. Generally, the subject will react
upon hearing the question pertaining to matter under investigation, thus, this will be eliminated by
introducing first the relevant questions.
Example:
ñ Regarding the (matter under investigation), are you willing to answer the questions truthfully?

 Relevant Question- a question that deals with the matter under investigation. It is designed to elicit
significant reactions from deceptive subject.

- A question formulate from information pertaining to the object of the examination and pointed
at determining the subject’s knowledge of complicity in, or truthfulness or deception regarding
the issue in question.

Purpose: To produce a change from the subject’s norm tracing plus excitement level plus stimulus.
 To detect deception as a result of physiological changes in subject’s norm.
 To resolve objectivity of the polygraph examination via chart probe and further testing on
potential reaction that result.

Guidelines in Constructing Relevant Questions

ñ It must solve a vital problem.
ñ The issue covered must be of vital importance to the examinee.
ñ It must pose a dichotomy, answerable by “yes” or “no”.
ñ It must be fully understood and mean the same thing to the examiner and examinee.

 When possible, should not use legal or technical terms.

 It should not contain obscene, profane, racial, derogatory, degrading or insulting words and phrases.
 Qualifiers, such as “other than…” are placed at the beginning of the question.

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  There should be enough facts in the question to avoid outside issues.
 There should be no more facts in the question than necessary.
 The facts in the question should not only be correct, but would be recognized as correct by the
perpetrator.
 It should not imply or assume guilt.
 It must not imply disbelief by the examiner.
 The sentence must be a question.
 It is preferable to use action verb rather than the result.
 It must not ask for an opinion.
 Should avoid questions on the issue of the intent.
 Be wary of using specific amount of money stolen in the question.
 Avoid words that are emotional and likely to cause a response.
 Use “that” instead of “the”.

Classes of Relevant Questions:

1. Strong or Primary Relevant- having an intense and specific relationship to the offense or problem being
considered.
-Addresses the primary issue or direct involvement of the subject on the matter under question.
(Ex. Where you the one who actually stole the missing assorted jewelries of Ms. Ana?)
2.Secondary or Weak Relevant- deals with secondary element of the crime and probe mostly on guilty
knowledge and partial involvement.
- Deals with the physical acts that support the primary issue.
(Ex. Between 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. January 1, 2015 did you open the table drawer of Ms.
Ana?)

Secondary Types of Relevant Questions:

A. Sacrifice or DYAT Question- designed to uncover the subject’s attitude, cooperation towards the test (Ex. Do
you mind to answer truthfully all questions about that?)
B. Knowledge or DYK- designed to probe whether the subject process information regarding the identity of the
offender, the location of the evidence or other necessary elements of the case facts. (Ex. Do you know for
sure who stole the missing assorted jewelries of Ms. Ana?)
C. Evidence- Connecting Questions- a question about some specific piece of evidence found at the scene of the
crime, to focus the subject’s attention on the probability of incriminating proof that would establish his guilt.
o test question in which the examinee is asked about a particular piece of physical evidence
that would incriminate the guilty person. It could be items left at the crime scene by the
perpetrator or stolen property.

(Ex. Was the evidence found at the crime scene yours?)

D. LTQ Questions- a question used for protection against loss of psychological control as approaching the end of
the question series. (LTQ- Lied to any Question)

1. Control Question (Probable Lie)- a question regarding a wrongdoing unrelated but is similar and less
serious nature to the offense under investigation, and to which the subject will lie if he does not really lie
he will think about it at the time it is asked or be unsure of the complete truthfulness of his answer.
- A question which is the same in nature with that of the relevant question but broader in scope. A
type of question designed to elicit responses from truthful subject. It is used for comparative
purposes with the relevant question. Also known as Comparison Question.

Purpose: To produce greater than offense question in the subject’s responding truthfully to queries
about the offense.
 To evoke less stress that the offense questions in deceitful subjects.

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 a. The Primary Control Question- is based on known lie. It must concern about events that
transpired within three to five years period before case under investigation occurred. (Ex. “Before
reaching the age of 20, have you ever stolen anything?)
b. The Secondary Control Question- is more specific in nature and is based on another experience or
wrongdoing. This will enhance the opportunity for responsiveness. It scope covers up to present
period. (Ex. “Have you ever committed any crime in your community?”)

2. Symptomatic Questions- a question that relates about the subject trust in the examiner regarding
confinement to the original issue under investigation. (Ex. Are you now convinced that I will not ask you
any question aside from these we have reviews? Or Are you afraid that I will ask you about something
else which I told you I would not?)
Purpose: To ascertain presence of subject’s hidden fears or apprehension unrelated to the issue.

3. SKY Question- these are three (3) question groups together and used only on the fourth chart in Backster
Zone Comparison Test. S= Suspect, K= Know, Y= You. (Ex. “Do you SUSPECT anyone in particular in
stealing Ana’s money?)
Purpose: To confirm specific response from previous charts taken.
 To detect indirect/direct involvement or guilty knowledge.

TEST 1- GENERAL QUESTION TEST/GENERAL SERIES TEST

These are series of relevant and control questions in a planned order. The questions are so arranged in order
to compare the subject’s responses between each type of questions.
Q1 Irrelevant- Is your first name Rain?
Q2 Irrelevant- Do you know that today is Sunday?
Q3 Weak Relevant- Between 7:30 am to 10:30 am of October 25, 2006, did you open the table drawer of Mr. Erap?
Q4 Irrelevant- Are you married?
Q5 Strong Relevant- Were you the one who actually took the missing money of Mr. Erap?
Q6 Control- Before attaining the age of 25 have you ever stolen anything?
Q7 Irrelevant- Do you know how to read?
Q8 Evidence connecting- Were the bunch of keys recovered under the table of Mr. Erap, yours?
Q9 Knowledge- Do you know who stole the cash money of Mr. Erap?
Q10 Secondary Control- Have you ever stolen anything from your current employment?

Purpose: The first 2 irrelevant questions are intended to condition the subject to have standard tracing and to
establish truth telling patterns.

TEST 2- CARD OR NUMBER TEST (STIMULATION VERIFICATION TEST)

The examiner shows the subject seven (7) variously numbered cards. Face down. The cards are arranged in
such a way the examiner will immediately know which card has been picked by the subject. The cards with numbers
15, 8, 5, 3, 4, 14 and 12 are used. The subject is instructed to select one card, look at it and memorize the number of
the card selected and put it back to the group without showing it to the examiner or otherwise identify the number.
After the selection the examiner then shuffle the card and instructs the subject to answer “no” to each question
concerning the cards, even when asked the number of the card selected. In other words one of the subject’s answer
to the question will be a lie. The stimulation test is designed to reassure the innocent examinee of the accuracy of
the test and of the test and of the competency of the polygraphist. It further serves to stimulate the guilty examinee.

Purpose: To check possible distortion when the chosen number is asked.

TEST 3- SPOT RESPONDER TEST

This test contains previously asked question in General Question Test. With the number corresponding to the
number of the question on the earlier test, the mixture would be.
Q1 Irrelevant
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Q3 Weak Relevant
Q2 Irrelevant
Q5 Strong Relevant
Q4 Irrelevant
Q6 Control
Q7 Irrelevant
Q8 Evidence Connecting
Q9 Knowledge
Q10 Secondary Control

Purpose: To determine the responsiveness of the subject to crucial questions and also serve as a check on possibility
of spot respond.

TEST 4- MIXED QUESTION TEST

The Question of General Question Test is again mixed and the mixtures of the questions are as follows:
Q4 Irrelevant
Q1 Irrelevant
Q9 Knowledge
Q6 Control
Q2 Irrelevant
Q3 Weak Relevant
Q10 Secondary Control
Q5 Strong Relevant
Q6 Control
Q8 Evidence Connecting
Q10 Secondary Control

Purpose: To compare the degree of reaction between Relevant and Control Questions

TEST 5- SILENT ANSWER TEST

The subject is instructed to refrain from giving any audible answer. The subject is told to listen to each test
question and to answer only to himself, silently. Moreover he is to think of the truthful answer and give that truthful
answer to himself, but silently.

Purpose: To serve as a confirmatory check.

Phases of Polygraph Examination

The competency of polygraph examiner is another crucial part in the field of polygraphy. This is so because it
is the examiner who formulates the proper test questions and interprets the physiological reactions on the polygraph
chart.

Polygraph Examination

It is a process that encompasses all activities that take place between a polygraph examiner and an examinee
during a specific series of interactions. For a valid polygraph examination to exist, respiration, EDA, and
Cardiovascular activity must be monitored and recorded.

Polygraph Room

This is a place where the polygraph examination will be conducted by the polygraph examiner. It is important
to consider the conditions of the room because if the room is not conducive for polygraph examination it could affect
the outcome of the examination. The following conditions must be taken into consideration:

a. It must be spacious for two persons

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 b. Well lighted
c. Well ventilated
d. Sound Proof
e. Not decorated

 Initial interview with the investigator handling the case.

In order to conduct a satisfactory polygraph examination, it is necessary for the examiner to obtain accurate
information regarding all the available facts and circumstances that form the basis for the suspension or accusation
directed against the person to be examined.
This phase includes:
1. Obtaining the evaluating facts
2. Determining the areas the subject needs to be asked.
3. The examiner must furnish the examiner the following:
a. Sworn statement of the suspect, witness and victim/complainant.
b. Incident or spot report.
c. Background investigation (BI) of suspect’s action or movement.
d. Rough sketch of pictures of the crime scene and other facts such as:
1. Specific article and exact amount of money stolen.
2. Peculiar aspect of the offense was committed.
3. Exact time the offense was committed
4. Known facts about the suspect’s action or movement
5. Facts indicating any connection between the suspect’s victim, and witnesses.
6. Exact type of weapon, tool or firearms used.
7. Result of the laboratory test.
8. Unpublished facts of the offense known only by the victim, suspects and the investigator of the
case.

Phase I- Pre-Test – is the preparatory stage for polygraph examination. This includes all consideration bearing on
polygraph examination up to the time of actual activation of the examination. The examiner pre-test interview with
the subject prior to the test is considerable both for the purpose of conditioning the subject for the examination and
also to provide and observe indications of guilt or innocence.
Pre-test Interview- before the actual testing is done, the examiner must first make an informal
interview of the subject which may last for 20 minutes to 30 minutes.
Purpose of the Interview:
a. The appraisal of subjects constitutional rights
b. To determine whether the subject has any medical or psychiatric condition or has used drugs that
will prevent the testing.
c. To explain to the subject the purpose of the examination.
d. To develop the test questions, particularly those of the type to be asked.
e. To relieve the truthful subject of any apprehension as well as to satisfy the deceptive subject as
to the efficiency of the technique.
f. To know any anti-social activity or criminal record of the subject.
g. Preparing the subject for the test.

Phase II. Test Execution (Questioning Phase)- the actual questioning to the subject in polygraph examination. These
include all consideration bearing on polygraph examination from the time the instrumental attachments are placed
on the subject until the time the instrument is deactivated.

Polygraph Chart or Polygrams

This refers to the composite records of Pneumograph, Galvanograph, and Cardiosphymograph tracing
recorded from a series of questions.

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Chart Marking
It is the process of using symbols on the polygraph chart to denote the subject reactions and other
circumstances that occur during the actual polygraph test.

Two Types of Markings

1. Primary Markings- these are markings which indicate the beginning and end of examination as well as the
questions and answers of the subject. These are usually placed at the bottom or at the top of the polygraph
chart.
a. X- it indicates the start of the test. The examiner informs the subject that the test is about to begin.
b. I I- is a stimulus mark. The first vertical line marks when the examiner starts asking question. Second
vertical line marks when the examiner finishes asking question.
c. + - a positive sign which indicates that the subject answers the question with “yes”. This also indicates
the period when the subject answers the question and usually followed by a “number” indicating the
order number of question, example +3, +4, +5….)
d. – a negative sign indicating that the subject answers the stimulus with “no”. This also indicates the
period when the subject answers the question and usually followed by a “number”.
e. XX- indicates the end of the test.

2. Secondary Markings- are markings which are played only if the examinee does something which will cause
the physiological tracings to distort. These markings are usually placed below the effected tracing.
a. M- Movement
b. T- Talking
c. DB- Deep Breath
d. C- Cough
e. CT- Clear Throat
f. SW- Swallow
g. SNF- Sniff
h. Y- Yawn
i. SZ- Sneeze
j. LGH- Laugh
k. SLP- Sleep
l. B- Belch
m. OSN- Outside Noise
n. ISN- Inside Noise
o. EE- Examiner Error
p. WRQ- Will Repeat Question
q. MI- Movement Instruction
r. TI- Talking Instruction
s. AI- Answering Instruction
t. BI- Breathing Instruction
u. WU- Wake-Up
v. TDB- Take Deep Breath

Phase III- Post- Test- the consideration that bear polygraph examination from the time the instrument is deactivated
following final polygraph examination until the diagnostic opinion is reported and the case is concluded. If the
polygraph test result indicates deception the examiner will then procced to conduct short interrogation. The purpose
of which is to obtain confession.
 Post- Test Interview- is conducted when the reactions indicate truthful response and the subject is very
cooperative to the examiner.

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  Post- Test Interrogation- the examiner will conduct interrogation if there is a presence of significant reactions
on the relevant questions indicative of deception.

Three Diagnostic Opinions in Polygraph Examination

 Truthfulness
 Deception
 Inconclusive
Four Kinds of Polygraph Tracing Segment:
1. Average Tracing Segment- a segment within a tracing that shows no physiological evidence in the emotional
level within the stress area on the polygraph chart or polygrams.
2. Reaction Tracing Segment- a segment within a tracing that shows physiological evidence that the
sympathetic subdivision of the autonomic nervous system has become active following the stress area on the
polygraph chart, indicating a psychological return to the subject’s exhibited average emotional level.
3. Relief Tracing Segment- a segment within the tracing that shows physiological evidence that the
parasympathetic subdivision of the autonomic nervous system has become active following the stress area on
the polygraph chart, indicating a physiological return to the subjects exhibited average emotional level.
4. Distortion Tracing Segment- a segment within a tracing that departs from the average emotional level but
lacks physiological evidence of either sympathetic or parasympathetic activation within the stress area on the
polygraph chart, indicating a lack in psychological origin.

Chart Interpretation
The process of reading and deciphering the meaning of graphical responses of the subject based on the chart
tracings.

Chart Probing
The process of showing the polygram to the subject and providing a brief explanation on the dissimilarities or
the responses with the objective of determining the true cause of recorded responses and to clarify the confusion or
misunderstanding that might have been caused by vague response.

The General Rule in Chart Interpretation:

 There must be specific response.
 To be specific, it must form a deviation from the norm.
 The specific responses must appear in at least two (2) test charts.
 The best indication of deception is the simultaneously specific in the three (3) tracings of the chart.

The Legal Rule in Chart Interpretation

There must be specific responses and the specific responses must appear consistently the same in relevant
questions in two or more chart.

Final Result
A Polygraph test result is a strictly confidential statement and its result can only be disclosed to the examinee
or a third party nominated in writing by the examinee.
There are four possible results:
 NDI- No Deception Indicated (Truthful)
 DI- Deception Indicated (Deceptive)
 IC- Inconclusive (Insufficient physiological responses)
 DD- Deliberately disruptive

 False Positive occurs if the truthful subject is reported to be deceptive and

 False Negative occurs when the deceptive subject is reported to be truthful

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Accuracy Legal Aspect of Polygraph

Admissibility Accuracy of Polygraph Examination Result

Question: Is Polygraph Examination admissible in court?
Answer: YES, if allowed by the judge.

Polygraph and expert testimony relating thereto can be admissible upon stipulation to support other
evidence of a defendant’s involvement in crime charge his testimony under the following condition.
 That the admissibility of polygraph test result is subject to the decision of the trial judge like for example if
the trial judge is not persuaded that the examiner is competent or that the test was conducted under proper
condition, he may reject to accept such evidence.
 That counsels of both parties and the subject sign a written condition providing for his admission to the
examination and for the succeeding admissions at the trials of the graphs and the examiners opinion thereon
in behalf of either the defendant or the state.
 That if the examiners opinion are offered as evidence, the opposing party shall have the right to cross
examine the examiner respecting:
a. The qualification and training of the examiner
b. The stipulation under which the test was administered
c. The restrictions and possibilities for the errors of the technique
d. At the good judgment of the trial judge, any other matter deemed important to the inquiry; and
e. That if admitted as evidence, the examiners testimony does not indicated to prove or disproved any
element of the crime with which a defendant is charge but at most tends only to specify that at the
examination, subject was not telling the truth. The trial judge shall determine the weight and the effect of
such testimony.
Questions: Why it is Polygraph Examination is Self Incriminating?
Answer: Because whatever taken from his/her body can be used against him/her.
Question: Is polygraph result Conclusive?
Answer: No because polygraph result is opinionated.
Question: What is the other means that the Polygraph Result can be admissible in court aside from stipulation and
order from the court?
Answer: During the presentation of the defense they should established the fact that polygraph examiner upon
request of the investigator examined the accused and they would like to offer as evidence the technical report of the
examiner. The court will accept the evidence base on the presumption that the polygraph report is suppressed
evidence since the finding is against the finding of the investigator.

Legal Status of Polygraph

Polygraph result is ADMISSIBLE in court:
1. When the examination is conducted upon a court order.
2. When business suffers economic loss and the employee of that business who refuses the exam is implicated.
3. When the polygraph is made a condition or precedent to employment in continuous employment.
4. When the nature of the subject’s relation to the public so demand. (Public Trust is Paramount)

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