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NOTES IN POLYGRAPHY

HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF LIE DETECTION

1.) INTRODUCTION

In the middle of the 19th century, Dr. Hans Gross, an Austrian known as the “Father of
Criminalistics”, defined search for truth as the basis and goal of all criminal investigations. He
asserted that “a large part of the criminalist’s work is nothing more than a battle against lies. He
has to discover the truth and must fight the opposite. He meets the opposite at every step.

The searches for truth and attempts at uncovering falsehood have been a universal and
almost constant endeavor dating back at ancient times. In their attempt to discover deception,
primitive societies developed complex procedures founded on magic and mysticism. The doors to
the truth, divine creatures sent messages through fire, boiling water and torture. In some
instances, faith in these powerful mysticism miraculously allowed the innocent to go unscathed
while the guilty bore the mark of guilt.

Some of these rituals were based on sound physiological principles. Oriental people for
example distinguished truth form lying by having the entire accused chew dry rice and then spit it
out. While this was a simple task for the honest, those who were deceiving has difficulty in
accomplishing this task and were then judged to be guilty and punished accordingly. This practice
recognized that fear slows the digestive process, including salivation. Thus, the deceptive were
unable to spit out the dry rice, while the innocent, having faith in the power of their deity to clear
them of the unjust accusation, felt little fear in contrast to the guilty who know they would be
discovered.

2.) HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT

Throughout the centuries, man continued to experiment with more scientific methods in
determining truth and deception with the following scientists having contributed much in the
development of the polygraph instrument:
a) Development of the CARDIOGRAPH COMPONENT
i) ANGELO MOSSO – 1895
(1) Studied fear and its influence on the hearth and his observations
subsequently formed the basis for the technique.
(2) Developed the SPHYGMAMOMANOMETER and the SCIENTIFIC CRADLE,
which he used in studying fear on the heart.

ii) CESAR LOMBROSO – 1895

(1) Employed the first scientific instrument to detect deception. This instrument
known as HYDORSPHYGMOGRAPH, measured changes in pulse and
blood pressure when suspects were questioned about their involvement in or
knowledge of a specific response.
(2) Procedure on the use of the “HYDROSPHYGMOGRAPH” in detecting
deception:
(a) Subject’s hand placed in a water filed tank sealed with membranes of
rubber;
(b) Subject will be shown pictures connected with the crime or mention will
be made to relevant facts of the crime;
(c) Pulsation of blood in fist were recorded on smoked drum.

iii) WILLIAM MARSTON – 1915

(1) He dealt with the sphygmomanometer which was used to obtain periodic
discontinuous blood pressure readings during the course of an examination;
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(2) He also experienced with and helped to develop the pneumograph, which
records breathing patterns, and the galvanometer, which registers changes
in skin resistance.
iv) JOHN LARSON – 1921
(1) Developed the polygraph, an instrument capable of continuously records
blood pressure, pulse, and respiration.
(2) The polygraph instrument which he developed was polygraphic apparatus in
a portable form. Had published more than anyone in this field.
v) LEONARD KEELER –1926
(1) Continued research and development of the polygraph. In 1949, he invented
the Keeler Polygraph with components that simultaneously recorded
changes in blood pressure, pulse and respiration, as well as the newly
developed galvanic skin reflex.
(2) He devised the chart roll paper, a better method of questioning, and
incorporated the kymograh.
(3) He also devised a metal bellows.

b) Development of the PNEUMOGRAPH COMPONENT.

i) VITTORIO BENUSSI – 1914
(1) Successfully detected deception with a pneumograph, an instrument that
graphically measures an examinee’s inhalation and exhalation.
(2) He demonstrated that changes in breathing patterns accompany deception.
ii) HAROLD BURTT – 1918
(1) Determined that respiratory changes were indicative of deception.
(2) Found out that changes in systolic blood pressure were of greater value in
determining deception than changes in respiration.

c) Development of the GALVANOGRAPH COMPONENT.

i) STICKER – 1897
(1) First to suggest the use of the galvanograph for detecting deception based
on the work of several predecessors.
(2) Theorized that the galvanic skin phenomena was influenced by exciting
mental impressions and that the will have no effect upon it.
ii) S. VERAGUTH – 1907
(1) First to use the term “PSYCHOGALVANIC REFLEX”.
(2) Believed that the electrical phenomenon was due to the activity of the sweat
glands.

d) Development of the POLYGRAPH as known today.

i) LEONARD KEELER – 1926
(1) He devised the metal recording bellows.
(2) Devised the kymographs assembly and the rolled chart paper.
(3) Incorporated the cardiograph and pneumograph component that measures
blood pressure and respiration, respectively.
ii) QUESTIONING TECHNIQUES.
(1) Relevant-Irrelevant Test.
(a) Developed by LARSON and KEELER in 1942.
(b) Theory.
1. Guilty reacts only to relevant questions.
2. Innocent show no reaction
(2) Relevant-Irrelevant with EMBARRASSING personal question.
(a) Developed by various examiners around 1946.
(b) Theory.
1. To determine reactivity of subject.
2. To stimulate innocent subject.
(3) Relevant-Irrelevant with SURPRISE control questions.
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(a) Developed by Inbau and Reid about 1948

(b) Theory.
1. To stimulate the innocent.
2. To provide contract for the guilty.
(4) Relevant-Irrelevant with REVIEWED (known lie) and guilt complex question.
(a) Developed by Inbau and Reid about 1950-53
(b) Theory.
1. to stimulate the innocent subject
2. to identify the general nervous tension and guilt complex reactor
3. to improve contract between innocent and guilty subjects
(5) The BACKSTER ZONE COMPARISON TEST technique.
(a) Developed by Cleve Backster in 1960
(b) Theory
1. Based on the principles of psychological set
2. Provides constant monitoring of subject reactivity
3. Designed to disclose outside issues

e) THEORY OF LIE DETECTION

i) It must be recognized that there is no such thing as an instrument that will

detect lies. The popular name, Lie Detector, given to a collection of certain
medical instruments, is somewhat misleading. No collection of inanimate
objects including the very finest and complicated modern computers, can
detect lies on the part of any human being.
ii) The students can understandably ask, “Well, what does this do called “lie
detector” do?” The answer to that question is that the lie detector records
certain physiological activities of the body. These activities are constantly in
operation as long as the person is alive. The student should be aware that
the most common lie detectors record a breathing pattern of inspiration and
expiration, a continuous pattern of relative blood pressure and pulse rate,
and a pattern of electro dermal activity.
iii) It is well known that the body adapts itself as efficiently as possible to its
environment. If the environment changes, the body will rapidly adjust itself to
these changes. This is done by a complicated system of internal checks and
balance primarily involving the autonomic nervous system. This ability to
adjust is necessary if the organism if the organism or body is to survive in a
constantly changing world. Those organisms that cannot adjust rapidly die
out.

f) RECENT DEVELOPMENT IN LIE DETECTION

INSTRUMENTATION

i) Since Mr. Trovillo’s article was written, there have been no great changes in
lie detector instrumentation.
ii) The consensus among lie detector operators is that present instrumentation
is adequate and any changes due must come in techniques of question
formulation and chart interpretation
iii) Most people have tendency to relate lie detection strictly to police activities. It
is true that the police application have received the most publicity and the
results obtained have been most spectacular, however, it should be noted
that lie detectors are used by many modern hospitals abroad to aid in the
study of mental conditions and emotionality.
iv) The most common of lie detection is in the field of business. Approximately
80% of lie detector examinations being conducted in the United States today
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are related to the field of personal employment screening (job seekers), and
employee screening.
v) Obviously employers are interested in reducing their insidious drain of
company’s funds and inventory due to employees stealing of cash and
property. The lie detector is being used to reduce this drain by periodically
screening employees. In other words, helping honest people to stay honest.
vi) As a rule, the results of a lie detector test are inadmissible as evidence.
However, if a lie detector subject confesses to the examiner during
examination, this confession can be admitted in court subject to the
provisions of the rules of evidence.
vii) Reasons why the results of a lie detector test are inadmissible as evidence:
(a) Not standardized as to the qualifications of the examiner;
(b) Not standardized as to the test procedure; and
(c) Not standardized as to instrumentation.

“SCIENTIST WHO CONTRIBUTED IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF POLYRAPH”

A. THE DEVELOPMENT OF CARDIOSPYMOGRAPH

1. ANGELO MOSSO – 1895

 He studied fear influence on the heart and his observation subsequently forms the basis
for detecting technique.
 He developed a type of sphygmomanometer and scientific cardio for the study of fear.

2. CESAR LOMBROSO – 1895

 An Italian scientist
 He was accorded the distinction being the first person to utilize an instrument for the
purpose of detecting lies.
 He employed the first scientific instrument to detect deception.
 This machine is called Hydrosphymograph it measures changes in pulse and blood
pressure when suspect were questioned about their involvement in a particular offense.
 He believes that there is such a thing as born criminal (false). Through stigmata, you can
determine a person who can be a criminal.

**Stigmata – bodily marks like Christ wounds impressed supernaturally.

3. DR. WILLIAM Moulton MARSTON – 1915
 He conducted numerous tests for detecting deception utilizing the changes in systolic
blood pressure
 He favored discontinuous method of reading systolic blood pressure
 He also experimented with galvanograph which register changer in skin resistance.

4. JOHN A. LARSON – 1921

 He devised an instrument capable of continuously recording blood pressure changes,
pulse rate and respiration.
 First Inventor of American Polygraph Machine
 He also developed broad board lie detector which was polygraphic, apparatus in portable
form.

5. MUNSTERBURG (1908)
 Proposed that lie test based on lie detector should be admissible as evidence in court.
 The detection is based on using blood pressure variations for deception detection.
 He advocates the used of lie detection in court.
 But it was not known if the same was followed.
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B. THE DEVELOPMENT OF GALVANOGRAPH COMPONENT

1. STICKER – 1897
 He made the first suggestion for using galvanograph for detecting deception base on the
works of several predecessors.
 He theorized that galvanic skin reflex is influence by existing mental impression and that
will had no effect upon it.
 First Inventor of Polygraph Machine.
 He invented the first lie detector using Electro dermal response.

2. VERGUTH – 1926
 He was the first who used the term psycho-galvanic reflex.
 He believed that electrical phenomena are due to the activity of sweat glands.

3. FERE – (1888)
 French Scientist
 Discovered that electro dermal response is caused by an increase in the action of the
heart and vital energy converted with human emotions.
 He asserted that human body has the ability to generate store, discharged high voltage of
static electricity.

4. D’ARSONVAL
 French Scientist
 Declared that electricity is generated by the body and named External Friction as source
of generation.
 He assorted those sweat glands which the body at times store the electricity and at other
times discharged them.

5. PAUL WILHELM AND DONALD BURNS (1951)

 Michigan City, Indiana, USA, (Independent Lie Detector Specialists)
 Invented an Electronic Psychometric using Electrodermal Response as a basis for lie
detection.
 Both have proven that results of lie detection test (during) using their instrumental 95%
accurate.

C. THE DEVELOPMENT OF PNEUMOGRAPH COMPONENT

1. VITTORIO BENUSSI – 1914

 He noted changes in respiration ratio during deception.
 He recorded respiratory course with the pneumograph component

2. HAROLD E. BURTT – 1918

 He determine the respiratory changes was indication of deception
 He found that changes in systolic blood pressure were of greater value in determining
deception than in changes respiration.
3. LEONARD KEELER – 1926
 He devised metal recording bellows
 Rolled chart paper
 Incorporated galvanograph with the measurement of blood pressure and respiration
 Method of question
 Kymograph

4. DARROW (1930)
 Devised a research photo polygraph which records several responses simultaneously,
which are;
A. Electro dermal response (skin)
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B. Blood pressure
C. Heart Beat Frequency
D. Tine between verbal stimuli and verbal response.
E. Signal Marks
F. Involuntary tremors of one hand
G. Breathing amplitude and frequency
H. Voluntary movement of the hand.
 This method did not however last long.

5. JOHN E. REID - 1945

 Devised an instrument for recording muscular activity.
 The recording made simultaneously with blood pressure pulse respiration tracings,
renders much more accurate any diagnosis based upon these later phenomena.

6. SIR JAMES MACKENZLE

 Generally overlooked in that history of the lie detector technique is the fact that so called
polygraph was in existence at least as early as 1906.
 Its invention, however as not for lie detection purposes, rather for the use in medical
examination.
 Nevertheless, it did contain the essential features of present day instrument and first
construction was based upon the same principle.
 Its inventor was Sir James Mackenzle, the famous English Heart Specialist which an
articles entitled “The Ink Polygraph” which appeared in 1908 number of the English
Journal.

7. CLEVE BACKSTER – 1947

 Develop the control question technique which introduces a lie in the polygraph chart to
establish a yard sticks so that one would know what the reaction really means.
 If this person responds to this control lie to a greater extent than does to the actual
questions under investigation we assume and establish the subject is telling the truth at
that point.
 If the reverse is true we state that he is not telling the truth at that point.

THE PIONEERS WHO USED BLOOD PRESSURE IN DETECTING DECEPTION ARE THE
FOLLOWING:
A. Lombroso (1895)
B. Munster burg (1908)
C. Marston (1917)
D. John Larson (1921)
E. Darrow (1930 )
F. Leonard Keeler (1930)

PIONEERS WHO USED HEARTBEAT IN DETECTING DECEPTION

1. Erasistratus
 Greek Physician (300B.C.)
 Had successfully noted the frequency of heartbeat, upon application of some stimuli
related to the question at hand.

2. Galileo (1581)
 Devised a gadget called “Pulsilogium”
 Instrument used to measure heartbeat frequency.
 He did not use this device for lie detection purposes.
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Objectives of a polygraph examination

 Ascertain of a person is telling the truth by verifying statement or comparing
conflicting statements.
 Obtain additional investigative leads to the facts of an offense;
 Locate fruits of tools of crime or whereabouts of waned persons;
 Identify other person involved;
 Obtain valuable information from reluctant witnesses and;
 Most important is the elimination of innocent suspects.

POLYGRAPHY (LIE DETECTION) IN GENERAL

1. What is Polygraphy?

It is the scientific method of detecting deception with the use of a polygraph instrument.
This is the new name of LIE DETECTION.
is defined as the scientific detection of deception through the use or aid of a polygraph.

2. What is Polygraph?
-derived from the two Greek words:
POLY -means Many or More and GRAPHOS which means Writings.
 is a device or an instrument capable of recording changes in blood pressure/pulse beats,
respiration, and galvanic-skin-reflex or GSR as indicative of emotional excitement,
especially of Lying when questioned.

3. What is Lie Detector?

It is the popular but misleading name of the Polygraph. In Greek, Polygraph means
“many writings” and the instrument was so named because it make various ink recordings of a
person’s body functions.

4. Other name of the Polygraph?

It is also called “Truth Verifier” since statistics show that is the vast majority of the
instances the instrument verifies an innocent person’s truthfulness.
5. polygraph examiner - is one who is skilled and capable of detect deception or verify truth of
statement through instrumentation or the use of mechanical device. The instrument or device
utilized to detect deception or verify truthfulness of the statements must the basic
instrumentation requirement of being capable of recording simultaneously on a moving chart
the physiological responses.

6. Concepts of Polygraph Examination.

a) Used to test an individual for the purpose of detecting deception or verify the truth of
statement
b) Records identifiable physiological reactions of the subject, such as; blood pressure, pulse
rate, respiration and skin resistance.
c) The effectiveness of the polygraph in recording symptoms of deceptions is based on the
theory that a conscious mental effort on the part of a normal person to deceive causes
involuntary physiological changes that are in effect a body’s reaction to an imminent
danger to its well being.
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7. Objective of a polygraph examination.

a) Obtain additional investigation leads to the facts of the case/offenses.

b) Ascertain if a person is telling the truth
c) Locate the fruits or tools of the crime or whereabouts of wanted persons.
d) Identify other persons involved.
e) Obtain valuable information form reluctant witnesses
f) Eliminate the innocent suspects.

8. Principal uses of the polygraph

a) Aid in investigation
b) Speeds up processing of investigation
c) Eliminates innocent suspects
d) Pre-employment screening
e) Honesty test (Periodic test)

INSTRUMENT AND EQUIPMENT USED FOR DIAGNOSING TRUTH AND DECEPTION

1) THE LARSON POLYGRAPH

a) This is the first assemblage of apparatus and some of his co-workers in the Berkeley
Police Department.
b) A strip of paper on which the tracings are recorded is mounted on two drums, which are
turned by a spring mechanism known as a kymograph.
c) The paper is smoked to reduce the friction of the styluses or recording levers which are
actuated by Marey Tambours.
d) A manometer is placed on the right shoulder of the subject, the function of whish is to
indicate the pressure in the bag, the pressure bag, encased in a leather cuff, is strapped
pneumograph is strapped around the chest to record respiration. This type of
pneumograph or respiration applicator is sill being used in some of the modern
instruments.
e) In a later model developed by Larson, a Jaquet polygraph replaced the kymograph and
smoked paper, and the pens moved horizontally instead of vertically as in the original
apparatus. In a further modification, metal tambour stacks were substituted for the
Erlanger capsule and rubber covered tambours.

2) THE KEELER POLYGRAPH

a) In 1925, Keeler developed a compact portal instrument using a modification of the

Erlanger pressure reducer that permitted the blood pressure changes to be recorded over
a greater range. He later make further improvement by substituting metal bellows or
diaphragm capsules in place of the Erlanger type pressure reducer.
b) The instrument is housed in a steel case with wrinkle finish and chromium trim. The cover
is attached to case by means of slip hinges and can be removed when the instrument is
to be used. Opening of the cover permits hinged doors at each end of the case to open
outward for access to the chart at one end and the accessories at the other.
c) All connections to the instrument are made directly under the right end of the panel,
which include the hose connection for the cuff inflation bulb, the tube from the blood
pressure cuff, a connector for the hand electrodes of the electro dermal recording unit, an
extension cord, and a tube from the pneumograph.
d) Space is provided directly below the attachments for storage of the accessories, and they
may be stored without disconnecting the accessories form the instrument.

3) THE LEE PSYCHOGRAPH

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This instrument was designed by Captain Clarence D. Lee and known as the Berkeley
Psychograph. It consists essentially of four units:
1) Chart drive or recording unit
2) Pneumograph or respiration unit
3) Cardiograph or pulse-blood pressure unit
4) Stimulus signal unit
a) All units are functionally similar to those in the Keepler Polygraph. Mechanically, the
principal difference between the two lies in the pulse-blood pressure unit. In the present
instrument, the Erlanger principle is utilized with its objectionable feature eliminated,
which is to say it will function at practically any level, there being no high or low “dead”
spots, and repairs when needed are very easily made.

TYPE OF TEST TECHNIQUES COMMONLY USED IN POLYGRAPH TEST

1) RI THEORY

Test I – General Questions Test (1-10)

Test II – Card or Number Test (Stimulation / Psychological)
Test III – Mixed Questions Test 1 (1-3-2-5-4-6-7-8-9-10)
Test IV – Mixed Questions Test 2 (4-1-5-6-2-3-10-9-8-6-5-10)
Test V – Silent Answer Test (1-3-2-5-4-6-7-8-9-10)

2) BACKSTER ZONE COMPARISON TEST (BZCT)

Test I – ZCT without SKY (one chart)

Test II – Card or Number Test (Stimulation/Psychological)
Test III – ZCT without SKY (one chart)
Test IV – ZCT with SKY (one chart)

3) PEAK-OG-TENSION TEST

ONE TO FIVE ONE TO SEVEN ONE TO NINE

1Q – Padding 1Q – Padding 1Q – Padding
2Q – Padding 2Q – Padding 2Q – Padding
3Q – Key Q 3Q – Padding 3Q – Padding
4Q – Padding 4Q – Key Q 4Q – Padding
5Q – Padding 5Q – Padding 5Q – Key Q
6Q – Padding 6Q – Padding
7Q – Padding 7Q – Padding
8Q – Padding
9Q – Padding

LIE DETECTION
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In every criminal investigation, the truth must be established to ensure proper prosecution
of offenders. Criminal investigators must exert all effort to determine lying not only on the part of
the suspect but as well as to everyone involved in the criminal act – witnesses, victims, etc.
In establishing the truth, criminal investigators apply various methods such as:
observation; mechanical lie detection; use of drugs that inhibits the “inhibitor”; hypnosis; and
interrogation.

LIE defined:
 Any untruthful statement; Falsehood; Anything that deceives or creates false impression;
 To make untrue statements knowingly, especially with intent to deceive; To give an
erroneous or misleading impression;

LIE is synonymous to:

 Deceit; deception; fabrication; falsehood; and untruth.

DETECTION defined:
 The act of detecting, discovery, perceiving, finding, or uncovering something obscure.

KINDS OF LIE:
1. BENIGN LIE OR WHITE LIE - Used to maintain the harmony, of friendship, harmony of
the home or office.
2. RED LIE - Communist propaganda; Against the Government
3. MALICIOUS LIE - Chronic Lie; To mislead justice
4. BLACK LIE -A person who always pretends.
(What he thinks of himself, what kind of person he is, and what he is.)
5. WHITE LIE- Intended to protect or maintain harmonious relationship.
6. RED LIE- lie that purports to destroy other ideologies by means of propaganda and
brain washing.

Types of Lies
• Direct Denial
• Lie of Omission
• Lie of Fabrication
• Lie of Minimization
• Lie of Exaggeration

TYPES OF LIAR:

A. PANIC LIAR
 It is one who lies in order to avoid the consequences of a confession
 He/She is afraid of embarrassment to love ones and it is a serious blow to his / her ego.
 He/She believes that confession will just male the matter worst.

B. OCCUPATIONAL LIAR
 Is someone laid for spare years.
 This person is a practical liar and lies when it has a higher “pay off” than telling the truth.

C. TOURNAMENT LIAR
 Loves to lie and is excited by the challenge of not being detected.
 This person views an interview as another contest and wants to win.
 This person realizes that he or she will probably be convicted bur will not give anyone the
satisfaction of hearing him or her confesses.
 He wants that people will believe that the law is punishing an innocent person.

D. PSYCHOPATHIC LIAR
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 The most difficult type.

 This person has no conscience. He shows no regret for dishonestly and no manifestation
of guilt.

E. ETHNOLOGICAL LIAR
 Is one who is taught not to be a squealer.
*squealer – to cry or to shrill voice
 Used by underworld gang in order for their member not to reveal any secret of their
organization.

F. PATHOLOGICAL LIAR
 A person who cannot distinguish right from wrong (his mind is sick.)
 Is an insane person.


Historically, early human beings have their own way of determining lying or guilt on the part of
the accused and accuser. Their common method is thru the application of “ORDEAL.”
ORDEAL defined:
 A severe test of character or endurance; a trying course of experience.
 A medieval form of judicial trial in which the accused was subjected to physical tests, as
carrying or walking over burning objects or immersing the hand in scalding water, the
result being considered a divine judgment of guilt or innocence.
ORDEAL
 Is a term of varying meaning closely related in the Medieval Latin “Dei Indicum” meaning
“Miraculous decision.”
 Ancient method of trial in which the accused was exposed to physical danger which was
supposed to be harmless if he was innocent.

AYUR-VEDA
o “Hindu book of health and science” The earliest known reference of the methods for
detecting deception.
o Come before lie detection (seen through outside manifestation)
o Basis of the invention of polygraph machine.
o Traditional way not scientific.

EARLY METHODS OF DETECTING DECEPTION (ORDEAL):

1. Red hot iron ordeal

 Practiced on the hill tribe of Rajhmal in the North Bengal
 Accused placed his tongue to a red hot iron nine times (9) unless burned sooner.
 If burned, he is put to death.
 Not only that (licking the iron), he is also made to carry the metal into his hands.
 It is doubtful whether the ordeal is meant to determined the physiological changes
occurring in description for if this so, many false observations must have been made.

2. Ordeal by balance
 Practiced in the Institute of Vishnu, India.
 Scale of balanced is used.
 In one end of the scale, the accused is placed in the other end, a counter balance.
 The person will step out of the scale listened to a judge deliver an extortion is the balance
and her back in. If he were found to be lighter than before then he should be acquitted.


3. Boiling water ordeal

 Used in modern Africa.
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 The method is that the subject will plunged their right arms into the boiling pot to the
elbow and step into the other side of the fire. All are told to undergo the test without a
murmur.
 And when all are finished, they are told to return at the same tine the next afternoon.
 The one who by that time had lost some or showed blisters would prove the thief (Point
out who is the one who steal among his tribe mates).

4. Ordeal by rice chewing

 Practiced by Indians
 It is formed with a kind of rice called sathee, prepared with various incantations.
 The person on trial eats, with his face to the and then spits upon an eyeful leaf.
 If the saliva is mixed with blood or the corner of his mouth swell or he trembles, he is
declared then a liar.

5. Ordeal of the red water

 Used in a wide region of Eastern Africa.
 The ordeal of the “sassy bark” or red water is used.
 The accused is made to fast for twelve hours.
 The swallow a small amount of rice.
 Then he will be imbibed in dark colored water.
 This water is actually an emetic and if the suspects ejects all the rice, he is considered
innocent of the chare, Otherwise, the accused is guilty/.

Combination of Drinks and Food Ordeal

 The accused first fasted for 12 hours and the given small amount of rice to ear followed
by large amount of black colored water.
 If the concoction was vomited, the accused was pronounced innocent; Otherwise, guilty.
 And practiced by “West African Regions”
6. Trial by Combat
 A fight between the accuser and the accused, whoever lost the battle will be the
adjudged guilty.
 Originated from India and one of the examples of this: a rich man or accuser could hire
somebody or bigger one to fight the accused. After the fight the loser is adjudged guilty of
crime.

7. Trial by Torture
 The accused was put into a severe physical test.

8. Drinking Ordeal
 The accused was given a decoction to drink by a priest – if innocent; no harm befalls him,
but if guilty, will die.
 Practiced in:
a. Nigeria
b. Brahamic India
c. India

9. Eating Ordeal of Corsnead

 Involves partaking of food.
 Accused was given dry rice to swallow.
 Practiced in:
a. China
b. Alexandria, Egypt

10. Trial of the Eucharist

 This trial is reserved for the clergy, and administered with pomp and ceremony.
 13

 If the accused was guilty, the Angel Gabriel will descend from heaven and prevent the
accused from swallowing the food given to him.
 Practiced in European countries.

11. Ordeal of the Bier

 The corpse was brought on a bier of boughs after which the natives would ask the corpse
if it has been bewitched.
 If the victim died by witchcraft, the bier was supposed to know more and if the sorcerer
show killed him was present, the corpse will touch him.
 Practiced in Australian and European Countries.

12. Ordeal by heat and fire

 The accused was compelled to walk bare footed through a fire; if he remains unhurt then
he is innocent.
 Practiced in a. East Germany - b. Early Scandinavian Countries - c. Early England

13. Ordeal of Boiling Oil or Water

 The accused was forced to dip his hands into the boiling water or oil and ask to pick up
stone in it.
 If he remains unhurt then he is innocent.
 Practiced in Asian Countries.

14. Ordeal of Red hot Needle

 Red hot needle was drawn through the lips of the accused, if innocent; no blood will be
seen flowing out.
 Practiced in Wanaka, East Africa.

15. Ordeal of the Tiger

 Accuser and accused were placed together in the same and a tiger set loose upon them.
 If both were spared, further elimination followed.
 With such means of redress, there were probably not very many plaintiffs.
 Practical in Siam.

16. Ordeal by Combat

 Accuser and accused report to a duel where the winner was adjudged innocent.
 Those not proficient in weapons and those who could not afford to do so could hire
champions in the field to do the fighting for them.
 This type of ordeal is vividly dramatized in the movie “Ivanhoe” based on the novel of the
same title (became the only legal ordeal)
 Practiced in England, time of “King Henry III”.

17. Test of the Cross ordeal

 The accuser and accused each were made to stand with arms crossed on their breasts.
 The one who endured the longest was deemed to have told the truth, the other, is the liar.
 Practiced in Europe.

18. Donkey’s Tail Ordeal

 Psychological theory, the donkey placed in one room alone and observed it, and if the
donkey cried is a judged of guilty of crimes, because deep in side and conscience he is
guilty.

OTHER COUNTRIES WHICH PRACTICED ORDEALS:

 14

A. Burma
 The accuser and accused were given each identical candle and both were lightened at
the same time.

B. Borneo
 The accuser and accused were presented by shell fish placed on a plate.
 An irritating fluid was then poured on the shell fish and the litigant whose shell fish moved
first was adjudged the winner.

C. Greece
 A suspended axe was spun at the center of a group of suspects.
 When the axe stopped, whoever was in line with the blade as supposed to be guilty as
pointed out by the divine providence.

D. Nigeria
 The priest greased a clock’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 (same country)
 Pour corrosive liquid into the eyes of the accused who was supposed to remain
unharmed if innocent.
 Pour boiling oil over the hand of the accused with he usual requisites for guilt or
innocence (if remain unharmed, he is innocent).

E. Europe and Early United States (17th Century)

 Trial by water was commonly used on those accused of witchcraft.
 The accused was bound (hand and foot) and then cast into the body of water.
 If the accused sank, he was hauled to the surface half-drowned and deemed innocent.
 If the floated, he was deemed guilty and burned to death.

F. The “Hereditary Sieve” Method

 It is mentioned by Hans Gross his famous books in Criminal Investigation in which beans
were thrown into a sieve (bigao) as the name of each suspect was called.
 If the beans jump out of the sieve, the owner of the name is innocent.
 If the beans remain in the sieve, the person named is the thief.

Triangle of Life

Heredity

Experience Training

Improvement of the Human Races:

1. Genetics (heredity/inheritance) – branch of biology which deals with the interaction of
genes in producing similarities and differences between individuals related by descent.

2. Eugenics – science and art of improving human breeds by so applying the ascertained
principles of genetics and inheritance as to secure a desirable combination of physical
characteristics and mental traits in the offspring of suitably mated parents.
 15

Recommended Terminology

1. Subject of Person – Individual Examined

2. Instrument – Scientific Instrument
3. Examiner on polygraphist – Conduct Exam.
4. Request and Volunteer – The person is requested to take exam and if he agree takes it
voluntarily.
5. Polygraph Suite – Permanent arrangement where the polygraph exam take place,
neither a laboratory nor an office.
6. Examination – Begins no later than when the person first enters the polygraph suite and
ends no earlier when he leaves.
7. Test – is that which transpires from the chart drives is turned on until it is turned off.
8. Chart – Paper on which the physiological changes are recorded.
9. Polygram – Whole chart when finished
10. Analysis – Study the polygraph tracing but he must consider and weight the importance
of factors effecting the demeanor and physical condition.
11. Diagnostic Opinion – Guilty or clear
12. Hot Question – Issue
13. Fit – Subject – Normal
14. Interview – Cooperation subject
15. Interrogate – Refuse to divulge information regarding the case.
16. Guilty – Lying
17. Clear – Truthful
18. Inconclusive – (no definite conclusion)
19. Validity – Refers to the extent to which an instrument measures what it is suppose to
measure. (Ex. I-Q, validated against scholastic achievements). People both think an
continually use accurate and dignified words then our own thoughts, speech and
attitudes will be more understandable, precise and scientific.
20. Lie Detector – “Man”

RELATED SCIENCES WHICH CONTRIBUTED IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF POLYGRAPHY

2. Physiology - Psychology - Mechanics – Examination – Environment - Methods

3. Devices to be applied on the Instrument - Diagnostic concepts used in Analyzing
charts - Legal status of Interrogation

THE POLYGRAPH INSTRUMENT

The instrument used in the proper application of the polygraph technique is essentially a
pneumatically operated mechanical recorder of changes in respiration, blood pressure/pulse heat
supplemented with a unit for recording galvanic skin reflexes, or an additional unit for recording
abdominal respiration; muscular movements and pressures; or a plethymograph for recording
changes in blood oxygenation. Attachments for the human body comprises of a rubber
convoluted tube for the chest area, a blood pressure arm-cuff on one bicep, and, in some
models, an electrode on two fingers or on the palmer side of one hand. These attachments act
as the detectors of the physiological changes and transmit the same to the instrument where it is
connected into mechanical impulses and transformed into tracings of the respiration, blood
pressure and skin resistance or the likes.

DIVISIONS OF CRIMINAL INTERROGATION AND LIE DETECTION:

1. PSYCHOLOGICAL (MIND); AND
2. PHYSIOLOGICAL (MUSCLE).

NERVOUS SYSTEM IS DIVIDED IN TO TWO (2):

1. Central Nervous System
 16

2. Peripheral Nervous System

SWEAT GLAND ACTIVITY

This is affected by air temperature, relative humidity and circulation of sweat glands;
fatigue; nausea; pain; mental excitement; nervousness; shortness of breath; certain disease and
drugs also affects sweat gland activity; resulting in increased or decreased sweat activity; voiding
large quantities of urine; dehydration; intoxication and
drugged condition.

PSYCHOLOGY OF THE LYING PERSON

 The lying person fears detection, causing physiological changes to take place in his body.
 Fear of detection must be experienced by the subject, otherwise no physiological
changes will occur.
 A person “tunes in” that which indicates trouble or danger by having his sense organs
and attention for a particular stimulus , and he “tunes out “ that which is of a lesser threat
to his self-preservation or general well-being.
 In a series of questions containing relevant and control questions, the lying subjects will
“tune in” on the most intense relevant questions and “tune out “ the control question and
may not be materially affected by other weak relevant questions.
 The truthful subject will direct his attention to the control question wherein he consciously
know he is deceptive and “tune out” the relevant ones.

How Does a Polygraph Work?

The polygraph simultaneously records various physiological phenomena by means a
horizontal kymograph. The resulting polygram indicates tracing of external respiration in the
thoraxic and abdominal cavities by means of a pneumograph tambour assembly, systolic and
diastolic contraction of the heart, as well as pulse fluctuations with the resistance of a
phygmonometer and psycho-galvanic skin response by means o instrument connected
electronics sensors fixed to the person. Each phenomena is recorded by a hallow-tube ink styles
moving across horizontally and vertically ruled being driven by a synchronous electronic motor.

THEORY OF POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION

A conscious mental effort of a mentally normal person lie causes physiological changes
within his body. The physiological changes could be recorded by the Polygraph Instrument and
diagnosed of evaluated by the polygraph examiner.

General Purposes of Using Polygraph:

1. Security risk – Leakage of Information Intelligence and Counter-Intelligence.
2. Criminal Law Infraction – Murder, Robbery, Theft, Rape ets.
3. Personnel Screening
4. Misconduct
5. Medical Measurements

Importance of Polygraph to a Law Enforcer:

1. Most effective way of establishing the truth.
2. Guilt is separated from truth (guilty separated from innocent)
3. If scientifically determined (lie) the investigator can evaluate the evidence.
4. Saves time, efforts and money
5. Measures the efficiency and effectiveness of the law enforcer.

Problem encountered by Law Enforcement Officer during investigation and interrogation:

1. Determination whether subject is telling the truth regarding the crime index investigation.
2. Obtaining admission or confession from a suspect after his guilt has been established.
3. In cases of witnesses, informer and informant who are in possession of helpful
information who are willing but fearful or reluctant to disclose it to interrogator.
 17

Qualities of a Good Examiner (Backster)

1. To make himself understand and not resented by subject, by his very exposure to him.
2. Ability to establish or create a rapport with the subject.
3. Much investigative experience as possible.
4. Interrogation Experience.
5. Must be deeply involved in his work (even beyond the call of duty).

What kind of man should be conducting the Polygraph Test? (Fred Inbau)
1. Good educational background
2. Intelligent and some degree of maturity
3. Possessed with sense of values
4. Adequate perid of training under someone who is experienced and skilled in the
technique.

LIMITATIONS OF POLYGRAPH:
1. It is an invaluable investigative aid, but never a substitute for investigation.
2. It is not a lie detector; it is a scientific diagnostic instrument.
3. It does not determine facts, it record responses to that which the subject knows to be true.
4. It is only as accurate as the examiner is competent.
5. The test will not be given until enough facts have been established to permit the
examiner to prepare a complete set of suitable questions.
6. The test will not be given without the voluntary consent of the subject.
7. No indication will be given to any person or placed in any report that a person will be
considered guilty because he refused to take the test.
8. A test will not be given until the accusations have been explained with the subject.
9. No attempt to use Polygraph for mental or physical evaluation of any person.
10. No examination will be conducted on unfit subject.

BARRIERS TO POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION

There are instances where it is impossible to make an analysis of polygraph tests
because of the following:

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

2. Mental cases.
3. Persons under the influence of intoxicating liquor.
4. Narcotics related cases.
5. Various heart and other organic troubles.

FACTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR

THE 25% ERRORS OF THE LIE DETECTOR TEST
1. Nevousness or extreme emotional tension experienced by a subject who is telling the
truth regarding the offense in question but who is nevertheless affected by:
a) apprehension induced by the mere fact that suspicionor accusation has been
directed against him.
b) Apprehension over the possibility of an inaccurate lie detector test result.
c) Over-anxiety to cooperate in order to assure an accurate test result.
d) Apprehension concerning possible physical hurt from the instrument.
e) Anger resentment over having to take a lie detector test.
f) Over-anxiety regarding serious personal problems unrelated to the offense under
investigation.
g) Previous extensive interrogation, especially when accompanied by physical abuse.
h) A guilt complex or fear of detection regarding some other offense which he had
committed.
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2. Physiological abnormalities such as:

a. Excessively high or excessive low blood pressure.
b. Diseases of the heart.
c. Respiratory disorder.

3. Mental Abnormalities such as;

a. Feeblemindedness as in idiots, imbeciles and morons.
b. Psychosis or insanities, as in maniac-depressives, paranoids, schizophrenia, paretics,
etc.
c. Pschoneurosis and psychopathia, as among the so-called “peculiar” or emotionally
unstable persons – those who are neither psychotic or normal.

4. Unresponsiveness in a lying or guilty subject because of:

a. No fear of detection.
b. Apparent inability to consciously control response by means of certain mental sets of
attitudes.
c. A condition of “sub-shock” or “adrenal exhaustion” at the time of test.
d. Raionalization of the crime in advance of the test to such an extent that lying about the
offense arouses little or no emotional disturbance.
e. Extensive interrogation prior to the test.

5. Attempt to “beat the machine” by controlled breathing or by muscular flexing.

6. Unobserved application of muscular pressure which produces ambiguities and

misleading indications in the blood pressure tracing.

Parts attached to the person being tested are the following:

1. Pneumograph tube with the aid of beaded chain, is fastened on the subjects chest or
abdomen.
2. Blood pressure cuff of the same type used by the physician is fastened on the subjects
either arm or around one arm.
3. Sets of electrodes are fastened to the palmar (or to the fingers).

THE FOUR MAJOR COMPONENTS OF POLYGRAPH

A. PNEUMOGRAPH -records the changes in the breathing of the subject.

-a rubberized corrugated tube about seven inches in length fastened
around the subject’s chest and abdomen. This occupies the two top upper pens of the
instrument which records the thoracic and abdominal breathing patterns of respiration.
The inhalation/exhalation of the subject cause the tubes to expand and contract, thereby
reflecting the change through bellows to the pen into the chart.

B. CARDIO-SPHYMOGRAPH - Records the changes in the blood pressure and pulse rate of
the subject.
 the blood pressure cuff containing a rubber bladder that is wrapped around one
of the subject arms in such a way as to ensure that the rubber portion of the cuff is place
over the brachial artery of the right arm for more satisfactory recordings. This is the fourth
and the bottom pen of the instrument. The polygraphist inflates the bladder with a hand
pump to put air into the system, which recorded in a sphygmomanometer in millimeter of
mercury (generally 60-80 mm).

C. GALVANOGRAPH - Records the changes in the skin resistance of the subject in a small a
mount of electricity, attached in the index and ring finger.
 a set of electrodes attached to the index finger and to the ring finger of the left
hand or the palmer or dorsal surfaces of subject’s hand. This is the longest and the third
 19

pen of the instrument. The electrodes used for obtaining the recording of the GSR or
electro dermal responses, are fastened to the hand or fingers by means of the passage
of an imperceptible amount of electrical current through the hand or fingers bearing the
attached electrodes, a galvanometer unit provides recording of the variation in the flow of
the electrical current.

D. KYMOGRAPH - Is a small motor that pull or dried the chart paper at the rate of 6 inches per
minute.
 this is the chart-recording unit of the instrument. It has a synchronized motor that
drives the charts at the rate of six inches per minute and its speed constant is vital
because the vertical lines, which are spaced either at one inch interval, represents five or
ten seconds interval on the chart. This provides the polygraphist with a means of
determining pulse rate and question spacing.

E. PEN AND INKING SYSTEM – is used to make a permanent record of the test.

DETACHABLE PARTS OF ACCESSORIES:

1. KYMOGRAPH or chart driving mechanism:

a) Chart roll arbor - Idler roller - Pen table - Paper guides - Sprocket roller - Cutter
bar - Off and on power switch - Synchronous motor

2. Pen and Inking System:

a) Capillary pen
b) Ink well plates
c) Ink dropper
d) Cuct bill

3. Pneumograph section:
a) Rubber jellows
b) Beaded chain
c) Rubber flexible tubing
d) Pneumograph tube connection
e) Pneumograph connecting tube
f) Pneumograph distributing ink
g) Pneumograph pipe line
h) Vent valve and vent bottom
i) Tambour assembly
j) Sphygmomanometer
k) Resonance control

4. Cardio section:
a) Pump bulb assembly
b) Blood pressure pump connection
c) Blood pressure cuff assembly
d) Connector block
e) Sphygmomanometer pipe line
 20

5. Galvanograph section:
a) Hand electrode
b) Electrode jellow
c) Galvanometer

PURPOSE OF THE FOLLOWING:

1. RESONANCE CONTROL – It allows you to clear up or make a better pattern when you
have too much pulse pressure of the subject.
2. HAND ELECTRODE – which is fastened to the hand by a stretched band. Function is to
make electrical contact with the subject.
3. PANEL CONTROL – to allow the operator to control or adjust the operation of the
galvanograph.

THERE ARE FIVE CONTROLS:

1. Off and on power switch – on switch is to energize the galvanograph section.
2. Subject’s resistance control – is to balance the galvo section to the skin resistance of the
subject.
3. Reactivity control – to adjust sensitivity of the galvo section.
4. Self-centered normal switch – is to select either mode of operation.
5. Self-centering mode – is when the circuit electronically centers the pen itself after every
excursion.

CONTROL OF THE CARDIO-SPHYGMOGRAPH SECTION:

1. Manual centering knob – used to place cardio in its proper place on the chart.
2. Vent Valve – is used to left atmospheric pressure into the system and used to release
pressure all or parts of the pressure.
3. Resonance control – is used to decrease the amplitude of the cardio tracing and used to
sharpen the diacrotic notch.

HOW TO OBTAIN BLOOD PRESURE PATTERN OR TRACING: (CARDIO)

Pen balance is critical. Pen is to be held on paper by friction of the. Inflate pressure until
you reach subject’s mean pressure. The mean pressure is the midway between the systolic and
the diastolic is the lowest pressure. In order to get the arithmetic mean pressure, add the diastolic
and systolic and the sum divided it by two. To get the geometric mean pressure, plus diastolic.
Watch your sphyg-dial when inflating the pressure, for maximum deflection.

CONTROLS OF THE PNEUMOGRAPH SECTION:

1. Manual centering knob – used to position base line of the pneumo tracing on the upper
heavy horizontal line.
2. Vent – with the vent down, the system is closed and unoperative. With the vent up, the
system is open and ready for use.
3. Uses of the vent:
a) To stop the pen between the test and to prevent possible tambour assembly.
b) To prevent pen from possible clugging by moving up or down in one place of the
chart paper.
c) To stop pen during the tube adjustment.
d) To assists in gaining amplitude.
e) To let atmospheric into the system.

HOW TO OBTAIN PROPER TRACINGS OF THE PNEUMO:

 21

First observe subject for point of maximum chest motion. Placed tube at point where
maximum motion is observed. The tube must be smug. A tube that is too loose will result in a
distorted pattern. A tube is too tight will be uncomfortable and distort the pattern. With female
subjects the tube is almost, always placed above the breast. Some females are abdominal
breathers and tubes will have to be lowered.

CAUSES OF REACTION ON EXURSION OF THE PEN:

1. Sudden noise
2. Interruption
3. Extraneous thoughts
4. Sudden movements

HOW TO OBTAIN PROPER TRACING IN MODEL 63 KEELER MACHINE: (GALVO)

Turn power switch from off and on position. Then the galvo pen fails to the bottom of the
chart, then galvo section is then ready for operation from 15 to 18 seconds after you have turned
the switch to an on position.

APPLICATION OF THE ELECTRODES TO THE SUBJECT:

1. Position of hands or tip of fingers for convenience.
2. To adjust the sensitivity
3. Balancing galvanograph to subject
4. Sensitivity test
a)Have subject take a deep breath
b)Touch subject ear or neck
c)Quick motion within subjects line of vision

HEART RATE:
The normal heart rate in adult males is 70 – 75 beats per minute. Rate is slightly higher
in female adults.

TECHNICAL PRODUCTION OF THE CARDIO TRACING:

1. The ascending limb – pulse wave causes an expansion of the arterial wall and an
increase surface pressure against the cuff bladder thus forcing air from the bladder
through the tubing into the tambour. The increasing air volume in the tambour increases
pressure against the bellows and forces the bellows forward.

This forward movement provides power to move the penfork in the attached pen in a
lateral clockwise or upward direction pen in a lateral clockwise or upward direction of the
chart surface.

2. Descending limb – when a pulsed wave passes beyond cuff bladder attendant drop in a
surface pressure against bladder reverses this processes permitting the below to return
to or toward its original position. This return of the bellows to its original position is
transmitted to the penforks and attached pen as a lateral counter clockwise or downward
stoke on chart surface.

3. Diacrotic notch – is cause by the minor secondary pulse wave passing under and
beyond the blood pressure cuff. In the wake of subsiding primary wave which
momentarily halts or slow down the decrease in the surface pressure against the bladder
in turn causing a hesitation in the bellow movement back to or towards its original
position.

TECHNICAL PRODUCTION OF THE PNEUMOGRAPH TRACING:

1. Ascending limb – with the expansion of the chest during the inhalating, the air capacity
in the pneumograph tube is increased creating a vacuum within the system, which
 22

reduces the internal surface pressure against the bellow. Thus moving the bellows
backward causing a lateral clockwise or upward stroke of the pen.

2. Descending limb – cause by the exhalation thus reversing this process causing an
increase in internal surface pressure against the bellows, thus moving the bellow to or
toward its original position and producing a lateral counter-clockwise or a downward
movement of the pen.

TECHNICAL PRODUCTION OF THE GALVO TRACING:

1. The ascending limb – it is caused by the decrease of the subject’s resistance which
throws the established circuit out of balance and modifies the electric current flow through
the magnetic field surrounding the pivot-movement of the recording pen.

2. Descending limb:
a) Physical cause – is caused by a reverse in the subject resistance toward the original
position thus bringing the circuit back to or toward balance again producing a lateral
clockwise or downward movement of the pen.

b) Mechanical cause – the fine coil springs attached to the pivot mountain pen cradle
serve as counter balance for pen movement either above or below the established
base line and assists in returning the pen cradle to or towards the original position.

COMPUTING RATE:
Graph paper is lined and spaced in seconds. It is moving under pens at a uniform rate of
six inches per minute. Rate is kept uniform through medium of synchronized motor. From one
heavy vertical line constitute a five second period. It is also one half inch. Cont the beats inside
any five seconds scale multiply by twelve. This gave you number of heartbeats at any point in the
test. For greater accuracy you count the beats in two five seconds area multiply by six.

TEST PROCEDURE

I. THE EXAMINATION ROOM:

1. Lie-detector test should be conducted in a quiet private room.
2. Select a room with none of the usual police surroundings and with no distraction within
the subjects view.
3. Select a room without any windows at all.
4. The interrogation room should contain no ornaments, pictures or other objects which
would distract the attention of the person being tested or interviewed.
5. This suggestion refers to the presence within the subject’s reach of small loose objects
such as papers, clips or pencils that he may be inclined to peck up and further distract
during the course of the interrogation.

 (EFFECT) – Tension relieving activities of this sort detract from the effectiveness of this
interrogation, especially during the critical phase when a guilty subject may be trying
desperately to suppress an urge to confess.

6. Estrange noise such as the ringing of a telephone or the conversation of persons outside
the examination room, of the presence of the arresting officers or other spectators in the
room itself, may produce disturbances and distractions which will interfere with a
satisfactory diagnosis of deception.

GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS when conducting the polygraph examination:

1. In order to conduct a satisfactory lie-detector test, kit is advisable for the examiner to
obtain from the investigators interested in the case, all the available facts and
 23

circumstances forming the basis of the accusation or suspicion directed against the
person to be examined.
2. This will include, of course, the details of the case itself. Such information is essential to
the examiner so that he will be in a position to know questions should be asked of the
subject during the test.
3. The subject who is about to be tested should be informed of the nature of the test and
purpose of it. The instrument should be pointed out to him as one which is capable of
determining whether or not a person is telling the truth about a given matter. He should
be informed that it records certain bodily changes and that the instrument will not cause
any physical pain except for a slight temporary discomfort occasioned by the blood
pressure cuff.
4. The writer made it a practice, at this point in the proceeding to tell to the subject
somewhat as follows: “If you are telling the truth you have nothing to worry about, this
instrument will indicate you are telling the truth, and I’ll report the fact to the officers who
requested me to make the test. The machine itself will show it; and I’ll tell you so, and
then I’ll ask you to let me hear the truth. That is fair enough, isn’t it? And you don’t mind
taking the test, do you?.”
5. Experience has indicated that such statement tends to relieve the emotional tensions in a
person who is telling the truth, and at the same time they offer no relief to the liar.
Moreover, the asking of as regarding the subject’s consent has proved worth while in
those cases where the criminal confessions are obtained as a result of the test.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
1. Do not wait until the last minute to ask a person to take the test.
2. Do not tell the subject everything that you know about the offense or about him.
3. Do not fail to investigate the case before you ask a person to take the test.
4. If for some reasons, it must be temporarily taken, the investigator must continue
investigating the case.
5. Do not depend on mass screening of possible suspects to produce a real or the guilty
one.
6. Do not tell anyone that the lie detector will decide whether one is innocent or guilty. The
court will make the decision.
7. If the test indicates that the person did not tell the truth or if the person confesses after
the test, do not think that the investigation is over.

II- FOUR (4) PHASES OF POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION

PHASE I (PRELIMINARY PREPARATIONS) - Initial Interview with the investigator handling the
case or person requesting it.

The Groups Involved In the Case.

1.Victim / Complaint
2.Suspects
3.Witnesses

“The three groups in the case are all liars”

This phase includes;

1. Obtaining and evaluating facts
2. Determining the areas, the subject needs to be asked
3. The investigator must furnish the examiner of the following:
a. Sworn statement of the suspect / witnesses/ victim/ complainant.
b. Incident or spot report
c. B.I. of the suspect, witnesses, and victim / complainants.
d. Rough sketch or pictures of the crime scene and other facts such as;
1) Specific article and exact amount of money stolen.
 24

2) Peculiar aspect of the offense or any strange set.

3) Exact time the offense was committed.
4) Known facts about the suspect’s action or movement.
5) Facts indicating any connection between the suspects, victim and witnesses.
6) Exact type of weapon, tool or firearms used.
7) Result of laboratory test.
8) Unpublished facts of the offense known only by the victim, suspects and the
investigator.

PHASE II - PRE-TEST INTERVIEW with the subject - The primary purpose of the pre-test
interview of to prepare or condition the subject for the test.

1. The appraisal of subject’s constitutional right.

2. Obtain subject’s consent to undergo polygraph test by signing a statement of consent.
3. The taking of personal data of the subject.
4. Determining his/her suitability as a subject.
5. Evaluating the psychological preparation of the subject.
6. Informing the subject of his involvement with the case.

FOUR RIGHTS OF THE SUBJECTS;

1. The right to remain silent
2. Anything you say may be used in favor or against you
3. The right to have a lawyer of his/her own choice
4. Right to refuse

“When the blood pressure rise up to 150 over 100 do not conduct examination”

Persons or subjects will not be scheduled for examination when they:

1. are obviously fatigued or in ill health.
2. are physically injured or in pain.
3. their judgment is obviously influenced by or impaired by drugs or alcohol.
4. have just suffered emotional trauma.

The examiner’s interview with the subject prior to the test is of considerable importance,
both for the purpose:
(1) Conditioning the subject for the examination and also
(2) In order to provoke and observe the helpful indications of guilt and innocence which
are often forthcoming at this time.

Following is the detailed outline of the pre-test interview which has been found to be
effective. (We are assuming in the case illustrated that the subject has already been advised of
the fact that he is to be given a lie-detector test.)
1. As the examiner enters the waiting room to request the subject to accompany him into
the examination room, the greeting which the examiner extends should be cordial, but
firm.
2. Upon entering the examination room the subject should be requested to sit down in a
chair alongside the instrument, and immediately thereafter the examiner should proceed
to the taking of the consent of the subject.
3. Then fill up the necessary data asked in the interrogation log.
4. Afterwards inquire from the subject whether he has been on a lie detector test before. No
further comment should be made by the examiner but he should listen carefully to
whatever the subject himself may say.
5. If the subject has not told of the purpose of his appearance in the testing laboratories, the
examiner should explain that a lie detector test is desired of him as part of the
investigation regarding the case. Much time should be spent in the preliminary interview
as the circumstances reasonably warrants.
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PHASE III (THE EXAMINATION/INSTRUMENTAL TEST) – The conduct of Instrumentation

and Actual Test.

After the pre-test interview, the examiner should proceed to place the attachment on the
subject. The first to be attached is Pneumograph, then the Cardiosphymograph and the
Galvanograph. Review all the questions with the subject before the actual examination is made.
The examiner should discourage any comments or statement by the subjects. Test instrument
must be given to the subject.

1. Upon completion of the necessary preliminary preparation the instruments is attached to

the subject.
2. The blood pressure pulse cuff is wrapped around snugly around the subject’s upper arm
and the pneumograph tube adjusted around the chest.
3. If female subjects or around the body, if male subjects or around the torso of male
subjects.
4. The cuff is then inflated to a point approximate midway between the systolic and diastolic
blood pressure. That is midway between the pressure produced by the output action of
the heart and that maintained at the time of the hearts intake action.
5. The synchronous motor carrying the paper upon which blood pressure pulse respirations
recording are made is then set in motion, the motor being so timid that the paper moves
along at the rate of a out six inches per minute, then ten to fifteen seconds after the
instrument has been set in motion, the inked filled pens of the instruments are permitted
to make their blood pressure pulse respiration tracings before the question are asked of
the subject.
6. During the test period the subject is informed that he will be asked several questions
which should be answered by either yes or no answers, and that they are so brief and to
the point.
7. Approximately five to ten seconds after this instruction first question is asked and then
the other questions follows after or at the interval of fifteen or twenty seconds.

The questions may be written out in advance of the test or in the course of the test during
the intervals between the asking of each question.

TEST QUESTION
The phraseology of the test question is an extremely important aspect of the examination.
The questions, and every word used in the questions must be unambiguous, unequivocal, and
thoroughly understandable by the subject.
The questions must be states as simply as possible, and with a complete avoidance of
such double inquires as “Did you shoot him and then run into the house”?
All questions must have only a single, unambiguous meaning.
There should be an avoidance of lengthy questions.
Simplify questions. Avoid legal terms such as rape, murder, embezzlement, etc.

Limiting Scope of Questions

The relevant test questions used in any examination should be confined to a single case
investigation. The Polygraph technique is not effective for stimulation testing regarding two or
more unrelated occurrences.
With all the gadgets attached to the body of the subject, the instrument will start running
by applying pressure on a button. The subject then will be asked to answer the following
standard test questions:

1. Irrelevant questions (unleaded/immaterial questions) – these are questions which

have no bearing to the case under investigation.
 26

2. Relevant questions (leaded/material questions) – these are questions pertaining

to the issue under investigation.

It is equally important to limit the number of relevant questions to avoid

discomfort to the subject. Relevant questions must be very specific to obtain an
accurate result.

Examples: “Did you shoot Mr X?”; Did you take the ring/wrist watch of Mr. X after
his death?”

3. Control questions – These are questions unrelated to the matter under investigation
but are of similar nature although less serious as compared to those relevant
questions under investigation.

The use of control question is considered by many polygraphists to be

the most reliable and effective questioning technique. These are usually asked if
there is doubt in the interpretation of the subject’s response to relevant and
irrelevant questions.

TEST PROCEDURE
The polygraph test consists of asking the subject/ person though the transducer of the
instrument, a list of prepared questions in a planned sequence; comprising of not more than
twelve. At least 3 test charts are taken, each lasting not more than four (4) minutes with a rest
interval of five (5) to ten (10) minutes between charts.

TEST CONSTRUCTION APPLIED ARE OF TWO MAIN TYPES:

1. General Question test – most commonly applied.
2. Peak-of-Tension Test – usually used as supplementary test.

Five Number of Tests to be Applied:

Test I – General Question Test

Purpose:
1. To get the standard tracing of the subject.
2. To establish a true telling pattern for the initial part of the record.

Test II – Number Test (Psychological Test)

1. To check the possible deliberate distortion when the chosen number is
asked.
2. To obtain a chart wherein the subject is not under stress.

Test III – Spot Responder

1. To determine the responsiveness of the subject to crucial question on spot
responses.

Test IV – Mix Question

To compare the degree of reaction between control and relevant question.

Test V – Silence Answer Test (SAT)

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It is a confirmatory test with the silence answer test.

THE GENERAL QUESTION TEST (General Series) - This consists of a series of Relevant &
Irrelevant Questions asked in a planned order. Questions are so arranged as to make
possible a comparison of responses to relevant questions with a subject’s norm made
during the answering of irrelevant questions.

Other Types of Questions Asked in the General Question Test:

Weak Relevant Question – it concern some secondary element of the crime or problem and
deals with mostly in guilty knowledge and partial involvement.

Strong Relevant Question – it is defined as verbal stimulus of primary important projected in the
form of a question which overcome a psychological excitement level and causes
pneumograph, cardiosphygmograph, and galvanograph tracings changes from the
subject’s physiological norms.

Evidence Connecting question – it is designed to stimulate the guilty subject and focus his
attention on the probability of incriminating proof that would tend to establish his guilt.

Knowledge question – this question is designed or begun to probe whether the subject possess
information regarding the identity of the offender, the location of evidences or items of
secondary element of the case.

GENERAL AND SPECIFIC RULES TO BE FOLLOWED IN THE

FORMULATION OF QUESTIONS

1. Questions must be simple and direct.

2. They must not involved legal terminology such as rape, murder, etc.
3. They must be answerable by yes or no and should short as possible.
4. Must be short as possible.
5. Their meaning must be clear and unmistakable phrase in a language that the subject can
easily understand.
6. They must not be in the form of accusation.
7. Question must never contain an inference which presupposes knowledge on the part of
the subject.
8. All questions must refer to one offense only.
9. All questions must refer to only one element of an offense.
10. They must not contain interferences to ones religion races or belief.

Other Example of General Question Test:

a. Have you ever been called by the name Allan? (Irrelevant)
b. Is today Monday? (Irrelevant)
c. Do you have anything to do with the robbery at SM/ Shoemart last night? (Weak Relevant)
d. Are you over 20 years of age? (Irrelevant)
e. Were you one of those who robbed the SM/ Shoemart last night? (Strong Relevant)
f. Have you been involved in a robbery case this year? (Control Question-Relevant)
g. Do you drink water? (Irrelevant)
h. Was the pair of gloves found at SM yours? (Evidence Connecting-Relevant)
i. Do you know of anyone involved in the robbery at SM/ Shoemart last night? (Knowledge
Question-Relevant)
j. Have you ever been involved in any robbery in your entire life? (Secondary Control -
Relevant)
k. Have you deliberately lied to any question I have asked you? (Relevant-Check Question
(optional))
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OTHER QUESTIONS ASKED;

1. Check Question – last question asked in the lie test. It is direct question that relates to
the fact that the subject has told the truth to all questions asked in the lie test.
2. Fishing Expedition Test Question – Used to vagrants or loiters for routine interrogation.
No idea about what offense has been committed. Examples:
a. Have you ever been arrested before?
b. Are you wanted anywhere now by the police?
c. Have you stolen anything since you have been in tour?

PHASE IV – POST–TEST INTERVIEW/ INTERROGATION - This includes all consideration that

bears on the examination. This is done just after the instrument is turned off. If the
Polygraph test result indicates deception, the examiner will then proceed to conduct short
interrogation. The purpose of which is to obtain confession. However, if the Polygraph
indicates that the subject is innocent; the examiner will just release the subject cordially
and thanks him/ her for his/her cooperation.

The purposes of further questioning after the test are:

1. to clarify the findings;
2. to learn if there are any other reasons for the subject’s responding to a relevant
question, other than the knowledge of the crime; and
3. to obtain additional information and an admission for law enforcement purposes, if
the results suggest deception.

SUPPLEMENTARY TESTS – Aside from the standard tests described above, the following
special tests may be performed and incorporated as part of the procedure or may be
used as supplementary tests depending upon the result of the standard test in order to
draw a better conclusion.

A. PEAK-OF-TENSION TEST

The subject may be given this test if he is not yet informed of the details of the offense for
which he is being interrogated by the investigation, or by other persons or from other sources like
the print media.

This valid test is only made possibly when there is no widespread publicity about a crime
where intimate details as to the methods of commission or certain facts of the case is known from
the victim and investigator.

The questions formulated are similar in nature and construction, only one of which is true
and the perpetrator who would naturally be in possession of such unpublicized knowledge will
usually exhibit a rise in the tracing up to that particular question followed by a decline thereafter,
caused by the relief of knowing that a dreaded question dangerous to his well-being, is past.

Examples of Peak-of-Tension Test:

a. Do you know whether the stolen watch from Allan is a Seiko? (This is an introductory
phrase plus padding question)
b. Is it an Omega? (Padding)
c. Is it a Rolex? (Padding)
d. Is it Timex? (Relevant question)
e. Is it Alba quartz? (Padding)
f. Is it a Citizen? (Padding)

B. GUILT COMPLEX TEST

 29

This test is applied when the response to relevant and control questions are similar in
degree and in consistency and in a way that the examiner cannot determine whether the subject
is telling the truth or not.

The subject is asked questions aside from the irrelevant, relevant and control questions,
a new series of relevant questions dealing with a real incident and that which the subject could
not have committed.

If the subject does not respond to the added relevant questions, it indicates that the
subject was being deceptive as to the primary issue under investigation. However, no conclusion
can be drawn if the response to added guilt complex is similar to the real issue questions.

C. SILENT ANSWER TEST (SAT)

This test is conducted in the same manner as when relevant and control questions are
asked but the subject is instructed to answer the questions silently, to himself, without making any
verbal response causes distortion in the tracing such as sniff or clearing the throat.

KINDS OF SPECIFIC TESTING:

A. Known Solution Peak of Tension
This is administered when a fact relating to the event is known only to the perpetrator of
the offense and the victim, police and client. This material fact, whether it be particular sum
of money, a particular make of weapon, etc. is inserted into test comprising a list of similar
items, the examinee is tested to determine his guilty knowledge.

B. Proving Peak of Tension

This is administered to obtain information that might prove valuable to an investigation. It
is designed to determine the location, disposition, modus operandi and amounts on the list of
possibilities.

C. Pre-employment Test
This test seeks to verify information contained in a job application and develop relevant
information deliberately committed by the subject.

D. Periodic Testing
This is conducted for the purpose of determining the honesty of employees assigned to
sensitive position. It also acts as a constant deterrent to employee’s dishonesty.

SIX (6) STEPS OF CHAIN REACTION THAT PRODUCE VISUAL RESPONSE;

Step 1. – The stimuli

Step 2. – The absorption of the stimuli by the body senses which consist of hearing, seeing,
smelling, feeling, testing and extra-sensory faculties. (Body senses)

Step 3. – The complicated process that takes place in human being manifested itself in what
is called emotion.

Step 4. – The action of the automatic nervous system

Step 5. – The actual physiological changes that takes place with in the body as a result of the
autonomic nervous system and the well of the subject.

Step 6. – The final occurrence in the reaction chain (Electro dermal Response)

DECEPTION DETECTION TRACED ON BODY RESPONSE:

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A. Voluntary Response
Include those over which the subject has definite control and include breathing rate and
amplitude. Eye movements, facial expressions, muscular movements-contraction and relaxation,
oral or implied answers, and the expressions of stipulated emotions.

B. Semi-Voluntary Response
Include metabolism changes emotional expressions reaction time in replies and eye-
movements. The average subject has some control over these.

C. Involuntary Response
Include electro dermal response, perspiration rates, adrenaline flow rates, blood
pressure and pulse rate chemical changes of the body fluids, psychological reactions, brain
electrical currents, saliva flow rates, body temperature changes, genuine emotion, face color
changes, tremor and polarization of body currents. The average subject has no control over
these phenomena.

PHYSIOLOGICAL PHENOMENA AS BASIS OF DECEPTION DETECTION:

A. Blood pressure and heart beat frequency

Increase of blood pressure and heartbeat frequency following relevant questions and the
suppression in breathing are the criteria for detecting deception.

1. Ink curves as shown on the heartbeat recorded on a moving graph paper of a

polygraph represent the following:
1.a. beat frequency (pulse)
1.b. two pressures (blood pressures)

a. Systolic or high pressure - They exist when the heart is contracted and
the values are open with the blood rushing into the arteries.
b. Diastolic or Low pressure - This exists when the values are closed and
the heart relaxed.

 Normal blood pressure - 120/80

2. The Heart is an automatic organ that continues to bat even when removed from
the body of provided with proper blood. The rate and force of the heart beat as regulated by
two sets of nerves;

a) the sympathetic set - Which accelerates the beat.

b) the cranial Autonomic system - Which retard the beat

It is also known that adrenaline, a certain hormone increases the heartbeat

frequency.

B. Breathing as a means of detecting deception. Breathing consists of two steps:

1. Inspiration - caused by the contraction of the diaphragm and expansion of the

chest cavity those results in the air rushing into the lungs.
2. Expiration – caused by a relaxation of the diaphragm and contraction of the
chest cavity resulting in the air rushing out of the lungs.

The following affects the breathing rates:

1. muscular exercise (muscle movement/jogging)
2. anticipation of muscular exercise (thinking to perform heavy work)
3. recalling mentally emotional experience
4. mental activity
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5. anxious expectancy
6. shock
7. surprise

C. Electrodermal Response
This is the most current popular name for the human body phenomenon in which the
body, mainly the skin, changes resistance electrically upon the application of certain external
stimuli.

TWO CATEGORIES OF ELECTRODERMAL RESPONSES

1. Normal Response
2. Abnormal Response

EXAMPLES OF ABNORMAL RESPONSES:

1. Machine Fright Response
Interference abnormal response that originates in Step 2 (fright to the machine)
of the reaction chain or situational fright. It appears on the first question or so and no
longer appears throughout the test.

2. Physical Movement Response

Interfering response caused by voluntary physical movement by the subject
during the lie test and is found between steps 4 and 5 of the reaction chain. The result of
such physical movement causes physiological (muscle) changes to take place within the
body that shows up electrodermal response.

3. Outside Interference Response

Interfering response originating in step 1 of the reaction chain in the form of unwanted
auditory or stimuli. The slamming of the door or the ringing of telephone, a cough or
sneeze by spectators in the room or any unusual noise to which the subject is not
accustomed at the location, will usually produceoutside interference response.

4. Mental Tie-up Response

Interfering response which originates between step 2 (machine fright) and step 3
(emotion) in the reaction chain. Other name is guilt complex.

5. Deception Response
Abnormalities as a result of telling a lie (more on psychological and such also is
accompanied by physical changes).

CHART MARKING
To facilitate evaluation and interpretation of test charts, markings are made with the use
of signs and symbols to enable the examiner to determine the following:

1. exact time the test commenced and terminated;

2. initial and final blood pressure and galvanograph readings;
3. particular point where each question asked started and ended. Corresponding
identification of the question, and the typeand time of answer given by the subject;
4. duration and amplitude of reaction patterns.
5. any instruction given or repetition of question made;
6. any movement, cough tracing by the suspect or outside distractions that occurred;
7. mechanical adjustment or re-adjustment made;
8. extraneous factors affecting test chart such as paper jams;
9. time interval between questions; and
10. chart number, name of subject, time, date, and place taken.

SIGNS AND SYMBOLS commonly used:

 32

X / 60 / 1.5 A - first markings of the examiner on the chart

XX / 60 / 1.5 A - examiner’s mark after the test
X - start of the test
XX - end of the test
60 - millimeter of mercury shown in sphygmamometer dial
1.5 - ohms of skin electrical resistance
A or M - refers to automatic or manual galvo amplifier used
| | - particular point where each question begins and end (also called
stimulus mark)
+ - Yes answer to question
- - No answer to question
A - adjustment
T - subject talked instead of answering with single Yes or No
R - subject request for repetition of question
C - coughing
N - noise
S - sigh by the subject
PJ - paper jam
SN - subject sniffed
BI - breathing instruction
OS - tracing changed caused by outside stimulus
M - movement
IM - movement instruction
L - laugh
B - used to signify belch
C+ - increase in galvo sensitivity
C- - decrease in galvo sensitivity
Y - yawn
IS - ink stop
CT - clearing of throat

CHART INTERPRETATION

A. The accuracy of instrumental detection of deception is dependent upon the

examiner’s ability to diagnose truth or deception by reading and interpreting a subject’s charts.
The polygraph chart is the composite record of the pneumograph, cardiograph and
galvanograph tracing from one series of questions. The chart is ruled vertically to represent time
element at an interval of either in second, five seconds of ten seconds division and horizontally in
fractions of ¼ inch for amplitude measurements. There are three heavy spaced horizontal lines
that serve as the guideline for the 3 tracings. The motor that pills the chart under the recording
pens has a constant speed of either 6 or 12 inches per-minute. A single test may consist of three
or more charts taken from one series of questions.

B. The pnuemograph tracing normally, found at the top of the chart, is a record of a
subject’s respiratory action during the questioning process and is classified as normal or
abnormal. The pneumograph pattern consists of inhalation and exhalation strikes with a normal
amplitude of form ½ to ¾ inches. The normal cyclic rate is from 13 to 18 breaths per minute and
may vary in reasons of exceptional physical build condition or respiratory defect. The
classification of abnormal is generally applied to those patterns that deviate from the norm
established by the individual.

1. Descriptive types of breathing are:

a. Normal;
b. Rapid
c. Slow
 33

d. Shallow
e. Deep
f. Serrated inhalation / or both
g. Deviations caused by coughing and mechanics of answering

2. Pneumograph changes from the individual norm which may be considered

indicative deception are:
a. Change in rhythm or regularity
b. Change in amplitude or volume
c. Change in the inhalation / exhalation ratio
d. Notched or serrated inhalation / exhalation strokes.
e. Change of base line
f. Loss of base line
g. Hyperverventilation
h. Suppression
i. Respiratory block

C. The galvanograph tracing, normally located at the center position. If the chart,
when properly balanced takes from of as lightly wavering line across the middle portion of the
chart with a minor response to spoken stimuli. Galvanic tracings which may be indicative of
deception:
1. Vertical rise at point of deception
2. Double saddle response
3. Long duration and / or degree of response following point of deception
4. Plugging salvo tracing

D. The cardiosphygmograph tracing normally found at the bottom of the chart, is

the three physiological phenomena, a systolic stroke, a diastolic strokes and a dichotic notch.
Normal pulse rate of the average individual is 72 to 80 beats per minute and may vary due to the
emotional tone of the subject. Amplitude or volume is also subject to variation and dictated by the
physiological structure of the person and the cuff pressure. Tracing taking the form of specific
responses indicative of deception are:
1. Increase or decrease in blood pressure
2. Increase or decrease in pulse rate
3. Increase or decrease in amplitude
4. Change in position or disappearance of dichotic notch
5. Extra systoles (premature contradition of an auricle or ventricle while fundamental
rhythm of the heart is maintained)

E. In the interpretation and analysis of charts taken in a Peak of Tension Test, the
following area considered in the evaluation of the level tracings:
1. An increase or decrease to point of deception then a level tracing.
2. An increase to point of deception and the an increase
3. A decrease to point of deception and then an increase
4. Level tracing to point of deception and then a decrease or increase
5. Erratic to point of deception and then an erratic tracing
6. Smooth to point of deception and then an erratic tracing
7. Any changes that may occur at point of deception

F. Other factors; that specific response to be considered as possible deception in

chart evaluation is:
1. Distribution of reactions
2. Degree of reactions
3. Trend of gross curve
4. Rate of change of the curve
5. Latent period of reaction
 34

6. Duration of reaction

G. For an effective chart interpretation, the following rules must be followed:

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

LEGAL STATUS OF POLYGRAPH

When the 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).

The Law Regarding the Basic Admissibility Issue.

The first appellate court decision upon the admissibility the results of a deception test
was rendered in 1923 by a federal court in Fry V. United States, in which the accused (on trial for
murder) offered as evidence the results of a Marston “systolic” blood pressure” test. The trial
court refused to permit Dr. Marston to testify concerning his results, and upon appeal this ruling
was affirmed. The reason which impelled the court to arrive at the conclusion of inadmissibility
are very clearly stated in the following except from its reported opinion.

Ten years after the Fry case decision the Wiscons Supreme Court was called upon to
consider the admissibility of the results of a Polygraph examination. In this case, State V. Bohner,
defense counsel offered to prove that the results of a Polygraph examination established the
truthfulness of the defendant’s alibi to a robbery charge, which offer the trial court refused. Upon
appeal the Wiscons in Supreme Court sustained the trial court’s ruling and held that although the
Polygraph technique may have some utility at present, or may ultimately be of great value in the
administration of justice a too hasty acceptance of it during this stage of its development may be
assumed to have.”

Two cases regarding the admissibility of the results of tests conducted with a galvanic
skin reflex recorder were decided by the New York court in 1938. One of the cases, People V.
Kenny, was a trial court decision; the other, People V. forte, a decision of New York’s highest
court, the Court of Appeals. In the Kenny case the defendant (on trial of robbery) offered in
evidence the testimony of the late Father Summers of Fordham University regarding the results of
a test conducted with a galvanometer. Over the objection of the prosecuting attorney, the trial
court admitted the evidence and permitted the jury to consider the witness opinion as to the
defendant’s innocence or guilt. The court in the Kenny case apparently was impressed with
Father Summer’s assertion to the effect that this “pathometer” was “effectively 100 percent
efficient.” Moreover, the effect of the Kenny case must viewed in the light of the latter and more
authoritative decision of the New York Court of Appeals in the Forte case.

In the case the defendant (on trial for murder) requested the court’s permission to be
tested on the same instrument and by the same examiner (Summers) as in the Kenny case. This
request was denied on the ground that despite the view taken by the court in the Kenny case, the
validity of such a test judicial acceptance. Upon appeal the trial court’s ruling was affirmed by the
New York Court of Appeals.

COLLATERAL ASPECT OF POLYGRAPH

 35

1. Pre-employment Screening – it provide a safe method in verifying statements of a job

applicant, prevent false evaluation and false judgment as reported by previous employer
who carry a personal grudge against him Done when the subject is applying for a job.
2. Periodic Screening – conducted to organic employees only, act as constant deterrent to
employee’s dishonesty and create a bond of mutual strength among employees. We call
it as personnel check.
3. Intelligence Testing – provide a scientific method of testing the intelligence of a person.

ADVANTAGES OF PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING FOR THE EMPLOYEE

1. Prevent false evaluation and unfair judgment due to personality conflicts reported by a
previous supervisor or employer.
2. It does away with lengthy waiting while employment application is being check, telephone,
telegram or letter.
3. Eliminate the potential hazard of a person knowing to work along side with other who
might endanger their live or job security.
4. Provides a safe method for a person to be cleared of unwarranted suspicion and unjust
accusation and malicious gossip.
5. It will create a bond of mutual strength between employees.
6. It create a desire for incentives

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING FOR EMPLOYER

1. Provides an accurate method, whereby the employment background of an applicant and
relevant issues collateral thereto can be immediately checked and verify at a negligible
cost.
2. Detect the chronic alcoholic job jumper and accident prone person.
3. Reveals some of the unusual aspect concerning the psychologically mal-adjusted agitator
amateur and professional theft in private industry.
4. Reduces costly personnel turnover by helping management put the right person on the
job and ascertaining an applicant attitude toward job permanent.
5. Acts as constant deterrent to employee dishonesty and permit basically honest employee
to work in greater harmony with basically honest employee.

USE OF THE WORD ASSOCIATION TEST

Lists of stimulus and non-stimulus word are read to the subject who is instructed to
answer as quickly as possible. The answers to the question may be “yes” or “no”. Unlike the lie
detector, the time interval between the words uttered by the examiner and the answer to the
question is recorded

When the subject is asked questions with reference to his name, address, civil status,
nationality, etc. which has no relation to the subject-matter of the investigation, the tendency is to
answer quickly. But when the questions bear some words which have to do with the criminal act
the subject allegedly committed, like knife, gun or hammer which was used in the killing, the
tendency is to delay the answer.
The test is not concerned with the answer, be it a “yes” or “no”. The important factor is
the time of response in relation to stimulus or non-stimulus words.
Like the use of the lie detector, the subject cannot be compelled to be subjected to the
test without consent.

USE OF THE PSYCHOLOGICAL STRESS EVALUATOR (PSE)

When a person speaks, there are audible voice frequencies, and superimposed on these
are the inaudible frequency modulations which are products of minute oscillation of the muscle of
the voice mechanism. Such oscillations of the muscles or micro tremor occur at the rare of 8 to
14 cycles per second and controlled by the central nervous system.
 36

When a person I under stress as when he is lying, the micro tremor in the voice utterance
is moderately or completely suppressed. The degree of suppression varies inversely to the
degree of psycho logic stress on the speaker.
The psychological stress evaluator (PSE) detects, measures, and graphically displays the
voice modulations that we cannot hear.
When a person is relaxed and responding honestly to the question, those inaudible
frequencies are registered clearly on the instrument. But when a person is under stress, as when
he is lying, these frequencies tend to disappear.

1. Procedure:
a. The examiner meets the requesting party to determine the specific purpose of the
exanimation and to begin formulation of relevant questions.
b. A pre-test interview is conducted with the subject to help him or her feel at ease with the
examiner, to provide an opportunity to specify matters, to eliminate outside issues, and
to review questions that will be asked.
c. An oral test of about 12 to 15 “yes” or “no” questions is given which is recorded on a tape
recorder. The questions are a mixture of relevant an irrelevant questions.
d. Immediately following the test or are a late time, the tape is processed through the
Psychological Stress Evaluator for analysis of answer.
e. If stress is indicated, the subject is given authority to provide additional clarification. A
retest is given to verify correction and clarification.

2. Advantages of Psychological Stress Evaluator over the Lie Detector Machine

a. It does not require the attachment of sensors to the person being tested.
b. The testing situation need not be carefully controlled to eliminate outside distraction
c. Normal body movement is not restricted.

USE OF DRUGS THAT “INHIBIT THE INHIBITOR”

A. ADMINISTRATION OF TRUTH SERUM:

The term “truth serum” is a misnomer. The procedure does not make someone tell the
truth and the thing administered is not a serum but is actually a drug.
In the test, byosine hydro bromide is given hypodermically in repeated doses until a state
of delirium is induced. When the proper point is reached, the questions truthfully. He forgets his
acts or may even implicate others.

B. NARCOANALYSIS OR NARCOSYNTHESIS
This method of deception detection is practically the same as that of administration of
truth serum. The only difference is the drug used. Psychiatric sodium amytal o sodium pentothal
is administered to the subject. When the effects appear, questioning starts. It is claimed that the
drug causes depression of the inhibitory mechanism of the brain and the subject talks freely.

The administration of the drug and subsequent interrogation must be done by a

psychiatrist with a long experience on the line. Like the administration of truth serum, the result of
the test is not admissible in court.

C. INTOXICATION WITH ALCOHOL:

The apparent stimulation effect of alcohol is really the result of the control mechanism of
the brain, so alcohol, like truth serum, and narcoanalytic drugs “inhibit the inhibitor”.
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The ability of alcohol to reveal the real person behind the mad which all of us are said to
wear (“mask of sanity”) is reflected in the age-old maxim, “In vino veritas” (“In wine there is truth”).
(Pathology of Homicide by Lester Adel son, Charles Thomas, 1974, p. 895)/

HYPNOSIS is the alternation of consciousness and concentration in which the subject

manifests a heightened of suggestibility while awareness is maintained.
Not all persons are susceptible to hypnotic induction. Subject who are compulsive-depressive.

HYPNOTIC STATE
 That it is a comfortable state or complete relaxation in which the subject will readily and
willingly to cooperate in every way with the hypnotizer.
 That it is not actually a sleep.
 That the subject will do whatever he is told to do.
 That the hypnotizer will not order him to do anything injurious.
 After the test, the subject will wake up with feeling of comfort and refreshment.

Reason Why Deception Detection Obtained Through Hypnosis Is Not Admissible in Court:
1. It lacks the general scientific acceptance of the reliability of hypnosis per in ascertaining
the truth from falsity.
2. The fear that the truer of fact will give uncritical and absolute reliability to a scientific
device without consideration of its flaw in ascertaining veracity.
3. The possibility that the hypnotized subject will deliberately fabricate.
4. The prospect that the state of heightened suggestibility in which the hypnotized subject is
suspended will produce distortion of the fact rather than the truth.
5. The state of the mind and professionalism of the examiner are too subjective to permit
admissibility of the expert testimony.

OBSERVATION
A good criminal investigator must be keen observer and a good psychologist. A subject
under stress on account of the stimulation of sympathetic nervous system may exhibit changes
which may be used as a potential clue of deception. And since just one or a combination of the
following signs and symptoms is not conclusive or a reliable proof of guilt of the subject, their
presence infers further investigation to ascertain the truth of the impression.

Clues of deception or induces of lies (sign)

1. Swearing to God.
2. Failure of subject to look straight into examiner eyes.
3. Rapid movements of adams apple among males. Hysteria among females or woman.
4. Shedding tears of both sexes.
5. Arrogance or indifference to interrogation.
6. Bitting upper and lower lips after a hot stimulus is profounded.
7. Changes on the color of the face.
8. Complete and total denial of the case under investigation.
9. Questioning accuracy on the polygraph machine.
10. Sarcastic laugh of the subject.
11. Force laugh of the subject.
12. Restlessness of the subject.
13. Show of the unnecessary movements of legs and head.
14. Changing seats from chair to chair.
15. Frequent excuses to go to the comfort room.
16. Asking the examiner for a drink or a smoke.
17. Over perspiration despite of an air-conditioned room.
18. Answering questioning by beating around the hush when questioning and answered yes
or no.
19. Asking the examiner to repeat the question although profounded clearly.
20. Asking counter remark who me.
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21. Making reference to prominent people and mutual friends.

22. Shifting blame to someone else.
23. Pointing the guilt to other.
24. Refusal to submit to polygraph examination. Consenting to polygraph examination but
refuse to sign the consent (written).
Physiological and Psychological Signs and Symptoms of Guilt:

1.Sweating
2.Color Change
3.Dryness of the mouth
4.Excessive activity of the Adam’s apple
5.Fidgeting
6.“Peculiar feeling inside”
7.Swearing in the truthfulness and assertion
8.“Spotless past record”
9.Inability to look at the investigator “straight in the eye”
10. “Not that I remember” expression