Essentials of Polygraph and Polygraph Testing

The polygraph machine was developed in 1923 to detect deception, and this book outlines the instrumentation, questioning techniques, and methods available to professional interviewers to determine truth from deception. It covers psychology and physiology, a history of polygraph, question formulation, data analysis, legal implications, and legal cases, and the authors' developed technique, the Integrated Zone Comparison Technique (IZCT).

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Throughout history, humans have had a deep-seated need to detect deception in others. In 1923, the polygraph machine was developed as a tool to aid in this endeavor. Over the years, numerous advancements have been made to the basic polygraph instrument, making it a more effective and reliable tool for truth detection. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the instrumentation, questioning techniques, and methods available to professional interviewers to determine truth from deception. It covers various aspects such as psychology and physiology, the history of polygraph with the contributions of prominent figures, question formulation, data analysis, legal implications, and legal cases, and the authors' developed technique, the Integrated Zone Comparison Technique (IZCT).

The polygraph machine is a device that measures physiological responses such as blood pressure, heart rate, respiration, and skin conductivity while a person is asked a series of questions. The machine records these responses and analyzes them to determine if there are any significant changes that could indicate deception. The polygraph has been used in various fields, including law enforcement, intelligence, and private investigations, to help solve crimes and uncover the truth.

One of the key challenges in using the polygraph is the issue of accuracy. While the machine can detect changes in physiological responses, it is not always accurate in determining whether a person is lying or telling the truth. This is due to a variety of factors, including the person's emotional state, stress levels, and the nature of the questions asked. Additionally, the polygraph can be influenced by external factors such as drugs, alcohol, and hypnosis.

To address these challenges, the authors of this book have developed the Integrated Zone Comparison Technique (IZCT). This technique combines the use of the polygraph with other psychological and physiological measures to provide a more accurate assessment of truthfulness. The IZCT involves measuring the physiological responses of a person while they are asked a series of questions and then comparing these responses to a baseline of physiological responses. The baseline is typically taken before the questioning begins and is used to establish a person's normal physiological state.

The IZCT has been shown to be highly accurate in detecting deception. In one study, the IZCT was used to examine the statements of individuals who were accused of committing a crime. The results showed that the IZCT was able to correctly identify 90% of the individuals who were lying and 95% of the individuals who were telling the truth.

In addition to its accuracy, the IZCT has several other advantages. It is non-invasive, meaning that it does not require any physical contact with the person being tested. It is also relatively quick, taking only a few minutes to complete. It is also relatively inexpensive, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals and organizations.

However, the use of the polygraph has also been criticized for its ethical implications. Some argue that the polygraph is a form of torture and that it can be used to coerce individuals into confessing to crimes that they did not commit. Additionally, the polygraph can be used to discriminate against certain groups of individuals, such as minorities and women.

To address these ethical concerns, the authors of this book have proposed several guidelines for the use of the polygraph. These guidelines include the requirement that the polygraph be used only in cases where there is a clear and compelling reason to believe that a person is lying. Additionally, the polygraph should be administered by trained and qualified professionals who are aware of the ethical implications of the test.

In conclusion, the polygraph machine has been a valuable tool for detecting deception in others for over 90 years. While the machine has been shown to be highly accurate, it is not always accurate in determining whether a person is lying or telling the truth. The Integrated Zone Comparison Technique (IZCT) has been developed to address these challenges and has been shown to be highly accurate in detecting deception. While the use of the polygraph has also been criticized for its ethical implications, the authors of this book have proposed several guidelines for the use of the polygraph that can help to ensure that the test is used ethically and responsibly.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367778668