SOUTHWAY COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY

(SOCOTECH)

CRIMINOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Effective A.Y. 2021-2022

NOTES IN LIE DETECTION TECHNIQUES FOR ONLINE CLASS

Course Code: FORENSIC-5

MODULE 3

THE POLYGRAPH TECHNIQUE

Polygraph Examination is generally used an investigative aid/technical aid in the
investigative process. It is used to verify if the statement of the victims/complainant, establish
the credibility of the witnesses, evaluates the truthfulness of the suspect. It is also used for
pre-employment screening and loyalty check of personnel, security risk such as leakage of
information and counter-intelligence, infraction of criminal law, misconduct and used in
medical measurements.

In law enforcement, polygraph examination is significant because it is considered as

one among the most effective way of establishing and is scientifically accepted where the
investigator can evaluate the evidence.

WHAT IS THE ULTIMATE OBJECTIVE OF CONDUCTING POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION?

The ultimate objection of polygraph examination is to obtain the subject’s admission
or confession to the offense committed. Admission is a statement of fact by the accused,
which do not directly acknowledgement of guilt in committing or having participated in the
commission of an offense while Confession is a declaration made by a person voluntary,
stating or acknowledging that has committed or participated in the commission of a crime.

WHAT IS THE TRIPOD FOUNDATION OF POLYGRAPH TECHNIQUE?

1. The Mechanical Basic Premise-The polygraph machine is mechanically capable of
making graphical records containing reliable information regarding physiological changes.

2. The Physiological Basic Premise- Among the physiological changes that may be recorded
and unidentified are those that automatically occurs only following the stimulation of those
specific nervous system components can be reliably diagnosed.

3. The Psychological Basic Premise- Under the polygraph leg premise, the specific nervous
system component whose stimulation can thus be diagnosed are so stimulated by the
involuntary mental and emotional processes of the individual who is consciously attempting
concealment of deception specially if that individual has something at sake and the
prevailing circumstances lead him to believe that exposure to detection is quite possible
though undesirable.
WHAT ARE THE PHYSIOLOGICAL PHENOMENA AS BASIS OF DETECTING
DECEPTION AS PER THE TRIPOD FOUNDATION?

1. 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.

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

polygraph represent the beat frequency (pulse) and the two pressures (blood pressure )-
a.Systolic or high pressure-they exist when the heart is contracted and the values are the
open with the blood rushing into the arteries ,diastolic or low pressure-This exists when the
values are closed and the heart relaxed .

Take note: Normal blood pressure is 120/80

The Heart is an automatic organ that continues to beat 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 –the sympathetic set-which accelerate the beat and the cranial Automatic
system- which retard the beat.

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

frequency.

2. Breathing as a means of detecting deception.

Breathing consists of two types:

Inspiration- caused by the contraction of the diaphragm and expansion of the chest cavity
that result in the air rushing into the lungs.

Expiration- caused by relaxation of the diaphragm and contraction of the chest cavity
resulting in the air rushing out of the lungs.

Take Note: 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
5. Anxious expectancy
6. Shock
7. Surprise

3. 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. It consists of two categories –Normal Response and the Abnormal Response.

Example of Abnormal Responses

1. Machine Fright Response – Interference abnormal response that originates in
Step 2 (fright to the machine) of the reaction chain or situation fright. t 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
reactions chain. The result of such physical movement causes physiological (muscle)
change to take place within the body that shows up electro dermal response.
3. Outside Interference Response –Interfering response originating in step1 of the reaction
chain in the form of unwanted auditory or stimuli. The slamming of the door or the ringing of
the 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 produce outside 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 results of telling a lie more (more on

psychological and such also is accompanied by physical changes).

IS THE POLYGRAPH TECNIQUE ACCURATE?

Current polygraph research indicates that when a specific single issue polygraph
exam, conducted by a qualified, trained, and experienced polygraph examiner, is properly
administered the accuracy rate is between 95% and 98%.This percentage is still higher than
other forms of evidence, including psychiatric opinions, suspect identification as provided by
victims and witnesses, and fingerprint identification.

The polygraph is the most accurate tool available today for determining truth or
deception. The accuracy of the multi-issue exam drops in accuracy due to a number of
psychological factors. These statistics do not include ‘’inconclusive’’ test results in which no
opinion of truth or deception can be made from the physiological data collected on the
polygraph charts.

The technique itself and the result of the polygraph examination has been a source
of unending question. However, practitioners have agreed that the accuracy of the polygraph
results is high depending upon the factors that affect it.

WHAT ARE THE FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE ACCURACY OF THE POLYGRAPH
RESULTS?
Generally, the following are factors affecting polygraph examination accuracy:

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

Specially, the 15% errors of the lie detection test come from the following circumstances:

1. Nervousness or extreme emotional tension is experienced by a subject who is telling the

truth regarding the offense in question but who is nevertheless affected by:

 Apprehension induced by the mere fact that suspicion or accusation has been
directed against him.
 Apprehension over the possibility of an inaccurate lie detector test results.
 Over-anxiety to cooperate in order to assure an accurate test results .
 Apprehension concerning possible physical hurt from the instrument.
 Anger resentment over having to take a lie detector test.
 Over-anxiety regarding serious personal problems unrelated to the offense
under investigation.
 Previous extensive interrogative, especially when accompanied by physical
abuse.
 A guilt complex or fear of detection regarding some other offense which he
had committed.
2. Physiological abnormalities such as:
 Excessively high or excessive low blood pressure.
 Diseases of the heart.
 Respiratory disorder.

3. Mental abnormalities such as:

 Feeblemindedness as in idiots, imbeciles and morons.
 Psychosis or insanities, as in maniac-depressives, paranoids, schizophrenia,
paretic’s, etc.
 Psychoneurosis and psychopathy, as among the so- called ‘’peculiar’’ or emotionally
unstable persons.

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

 No fear of detection.
 Apparent inability to consciously control response by means of certain mental sets
of attitudes.
 A condition of ‘’sub-shock’’ or ‘’adrenal exhaustion’’ at the time of test.
 Rationalization of the crime in advance of the test to such an extent that lying
about the offense arouses little of no emotional disturbance.
 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

indication in the blood pressure tracing.

WHAT ARE THE LIMITATIONS OF THE POLYGRAPH TECHNIQUE?

1. It is an invaluable investigative aid, but never a substitute for investigation.
2. It is not a lie detector but only a scientific diagnostic instrument.
3. It does not determine facts; it records 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 fact has been established to the 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 give 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.

WHAT ARE THE BARRIERS TO THE 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

WHAT IS THE MODERN 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 abdominal respiration, muscular
movements and pressures or a plethymograph for recording changes in blood oxygenation.

Figure 1
LAFAYETTE COMPUTERIZED POLYGRAPH
Modern polygraph services uses computerized polygraph instrument. For instance, a
Lafayette Computerized Polygraph Instrument is common both in a desktop model for
polygraph examinations administered in the office and in a laptop model for travel as picture
below.

Figure 2-(Monolog Models)

THE AMBASSADOR (LAFAYETTE) POLYGRAPH AND THE STOELTING POLYGRAPH

HOW DOES THE POLYRAPH INSTRUMENT WORK?

The polygraph simultaneously records various physiological phenomena by means a
horizontal kymograph. The resulting PolyGram indicates tracing of external respiration in the
thoracic and abdominal cavities by means of a pnneumograph tambour assembly, systolic
and diastolic contraction of the heart, as well as pulse fluctuation with the resistance of a
sphygmomanometer and psycho-galvanic skin response by means of the electrodes o the
person’s fingers. Each phenomenon is recorded by a hallow tube ink styles moving across
horizontally and vertically ruled being driven by synchronous electronic motor.
 Figure 3
ATTACHMENT OF THE COMPUTERIZED POLYGRAPH INSTRUMENT

The physiological changes within the examinee’s body are monitored by the following
polygraph attachment:

RESPIRATORY RATE- Two rubber tubes filled with air, called pneumographs, are placed
around the examinee’s chest and abdomen. When the chest or abdominal muscles expand,
the air inside the tubes is displaced. The digital or computerized polygraph employs
transducers to convert the energy of the displaced ait into electronic signals.

BLOOD PRESSURE/HEART RATE: A blood pressure cuff is placed around the examinee’s
upper arm. Tubing runs from the cuff to the polygraph. Again, in digital or computerized
polygraph, these signals are converted into electrical signals by transducers.

GALVANIC SKIN RESISTANCE: This is also called electro-dermal activity and basically a
measure of sweat on the subject’s fingertips. The fingertips are one of the most porous are
as on the body and therefore are a good place to look for sweat. The theory is we sweat
more when we are placed under stress. Finger electrodes, are attached to two of the
examinee’s fingers. These electrodes measure the skin ability to conduct electricity. These
electrodes measures the skin is hydrated (as with sweat),it conducts electricity much more
easily that when it is dry.

Figure 4
PROPER ATTACHMENT OF THE POLYGRAPH SENSORS OR TRANSDUCERS TO THE
BODY OF THE SUBJECT
WHAT ARE THE MAJOR COMPONENTS OF THE POLYGRAPH INSTRUMENT?
The pneumograph component- This component occupies the two/upper pens of the
instrument which records the thoracic and abdominal breathing patters of respiration. This is
accomplished through the use of pneumograph consisting of two hollow corrugated tubes
about seven inches in length, each attached to a unit by a rubber hose not longer than six
feet and not larger than one quarter inch in diameter. This breathing or pneumo unit is a low
pressure unit. The inhalation /exhalation of the subject causes the tubes to expand and
contract, thereby reflecting the change through billows to the pen into the chart.

Figure 5
PNEUMOGRAPH COMPONENT

The Galvanograph Component – This is the longest and the third pen of the instrument.
The electrodes are attached to the index finger and the ring finger of the left hand, or to the
palmar and dorsal surfaces of the left hand. The electrodes used for obtaining the recording
of the GSR or electro-dermal response, are fastened to the hand or finger by means of the
passage of an imperceptible amount of electrical current through the hand or finger bearing
the attached electrodes ,, a galvanometer unit provides recording of the variation in the flow
of the electrical current.

Figure 6
GALVANOGRAPH COMPONENT
The Cardiograph Component –This is the fourth and the bottom pen of the instrument.
This cardio unit is a mechanically operated unit. It is a high pressure system. This system
records changes in mean blood pressure, rate and strength of pulse beat by means of a
medical blood pressure cuff containing a rubber bladder that is wrapped around the upper
arm, in a manner that places the bladder against the brachial artery. The bladder is
connected to the rubber hose past a pressure indicating gauge to a very sensitive billows
and its connected lever system that powers the pen.

The polygraphist inflates the bladder with a hand pump to a constant air pressure that will
provide tracing amplitude of 0.75 to 1 inch with a dichotic notch situated about the middle of
the diastolic limb of the tracing.

Figure 7
CARDIOGRAPH COMPONENT

The Kymograph Component – This is the chart –drive recording unit of the instrument. It
has a rate synchronized motor that drives the charts at the rate of six(6) to twelve(12)
inches per minute and its speed constant is vital because the vertical lines, which are
spaced either at one-half of an inch interval ,represents five or ten seconds interval on the
chart. This provides the polygraphist with a means of determining pulse rate and the
questioning space.

What are the Detachable Parts of the Polygraph Instrument?

Figure 8
FINGER ELECTRODES AND BLOOD PRESSURE CUFF
 Figure 8
PNEUMO TUBE 1 AND PNEUMO TUBE 2

WHAT ARE THE BUILT –IN ACCESSORIES OF THE POLYGRAPH INSTRUMENT?

1.KYMOGRAPH or chart driving mechanism-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-Capillary pen, Ink well plates, ink dropper, cuct bill

3.PNEUMOGRAPH SECTION- rubber jellows, beaded chain, rubber flexible tubing,

pneumograph tube connection, pneumograph connecting tube ,pneugraph distributing ink,
pneumograph pipe line , vent valve and vent bottom, tambour assembly
,sphygmomanometer, resonance control.

4. CARDIO SECTION- Pump bulb assembly, blood pressure pump connection, blood
pressure cuff assembly, connector block, sphygmomanometer pipe line

5.GALVANOGRAPH SECTION –Finger electrode, Electrode jellow ,galvanometer

WHAT ARE THE NECESSARY CONSIDERATIONS FOR AN EFFECTIVE POLYGRAPH

TESTING?

1. The Instrument
Polygraph examination uses the polygraph instrument as the device used for recording
the results. Hence, all its components and accessories must be operational and functional.
The examiner should check the sensors/ transducers attached to the body of the subject:

 Pneumograph tube -is fastened on the subjectschest and abdomen through the
beaded chain.
 Blood pressure cuff – the same type used by physicians is fastened on the subjects
upper right arm or bicep.
 Finger electrodes –fastened to the left index and ring fingers to the subject.

And must be guided by the parts and functions of the instrument as follows:
 Pen lifter – raises or lowers pen to three (3) positions.
 Chart Drive Module- propels chart paper at the rate of 6-12 inches per minute. Also
known as kymograph.
 Paper Tear Bar- provides cutting edge for removal of charts
 Mechanical Pneumo Module – recording part mechanical pneumo channel.
 Galvanic skin reflex (GSR) module –recording parts GSR channel
 Chart drive roller lever – lifts chart drive roller for paper changes and chart removal.
 Sphygmomanometer Dial – reads operating pressure of cardio channel.
 Pneumo 1- pneumatic connection for upper (thhoracic) pneumograph.
  Pneumo 2- pneumatic connection for lower (abdominal) pneumograph.
 Cuff –connection for cardio channel subject cuff tubing.
 Pump- connection for hand pump used to inflate cuff.
 CENTERING CONTROL-position pen on chart. Rotating clock wise raises the pen,
while counter clockwise rotation lowers it. Operates similarly on all channels.

 Sensitivity control - determines the tracing size(amplitude).Rotating clockwise

increases size while counter clockwise rotation decreases size
 GSR MODE SWITCH – selects the operating mode for GSR CHANNEL manual or
automatic.
 GSR Input Connector –accepts plug from GSR subject attachment cord.
 Cardio Lock Lever -immobilizes MECHANICAL CARDIO MECHANISM WHEN NOT
IN USE.
 Vent – perform venting function on pneumatic system
The examiner should also familiarize himself with the control mechanisms of the
Polygraph Instrument:
 Resonance Control- It allows you to clear up or make a better pattern when you
have to much pulse pressure of the subject.
 Hand Electrode- This is fastened to the hand by a stretched band. Function is to
make electrical contact with the subject.
 Panel Control- to allow the operator to con troll or adjust the operation of the
galvanograph.
There are other five important controls:

 Off and on power switch- on switch energizers the galvanograph section.

 Subject’s resistance control-balances galvano section to the skin resistance
of the subject.
 Reactivity Control- adjust sensitivity of the galvano section.
 Self-centered normal switch-selects either mode of operation.
 Self-centering mode- the circuit electronically centers the pen after every
excursion.

Control of CARDIO-SPHYGMOGRAPH section

 Manual Centering knob- used to place cardio in its proper place on the chart.
 Vent Valve-is used to left atmospheric pressure into the system and used to released
pressure all or parts of the pressure.
 Resonance Control- is used to decrease the amplitude of the cardio tracing and used
to sharpen the diacritic notch.

Control of Pneumograph section

 Manual centering knob- used to position base line of the pneumo tracing on the
upper heavy horizontal line
 Vent-with the vent down, the system is closed and non-operative. With the vent up,
the system is open and ready for use.
 Uses of vent
a. to stop the pen between the tests and to prevent possible tambour assembly.
b. to prevent pen from possible jam 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 enter into the system.
2. THE EXAMINER.

Basis to all that has been said with regards to the utilization and accuracy of the
polygraph technique is the matter of the examiner qualifications and skills, An Examiner
must be an intelligent person, with reasonably good educational background-preferably
college degree. He should have an intense interest in the work itself, a good practical
understanding of human nature and suitable personality traits which “get along” with people
and to be well liked by his friends and associates No amount of training or experience will
overcome lack of these necessary qualification.

3. THE SUBJECT

Generally there are three types of subjects for polygraph testing- a) suspect b) the victim or
complainant and c) witness.
Specifically the following can be subjected for polygraph testing:
1. Subject whose guilt is definite or reasonably certain.
2. Emotional offender
3. Person who commit crimes in the heat of passion.
4. Person whose offenses area accidental in nature.
5. Non-Emotional offender.
6. Person who commit crimes for financial gain.
7. Subject whose guilt is doubtful or uncertain.

A Subject for the polygraph testing must be in good physical and mental condition before
he/she may be submitted for examination On the other hand, recommended to Undergo
Polygraph Testing such as the following:

1. Person who have extreme nervousness

2. Person who have physiological abnormalities such as high blood
pressure/Hypertension, heart disease respiratory disorder, toothaches, severe
headaches and practically any painful ailments.
3. Person with mental abnormalities.
4. Unresponsive person, such as those who suffer mental fatigue or under the
influence of drugs or alcohol.
5. Pregnant women
6. Person below 18 years of age.

4. THE EXAMINATION ROOM

The examination room is importantly considered for effective polygraph testing the condition
of the room must be as follows:
●Lie-Detector test should be conducted in a quiet private room.
●A room with none of the usual police surroundings and with no distraction within the subject
view
●A room without any windows at all
● The interrogation room should contain no ornaments pictures or other object which would
distract the attention of the person being tested or interviewed.
●A room free from noise such as the ringing of a telephone or the conversation of persons
outside the examination room
●The presence of other officers or other spectators in the room itself may produce
disturbance and distractions which will interfere with a satisfactory diagnosis of deception
hence this should also avoided.
 Adequate ventilation is needed with comfortable temperature if a glass window is
needed for this purpose it should not be installed facing the subject and the lightings should
not be excessive.
There should be an “Observation room” adjacent to the examination room as in
psychology laboratories A “one-way mirror” (a panel of glass chemically treated so as to
permit someone from the observation room to see) must be installed on the wall in between
the rooms, so the subject may be viewed from the observation room by the co-examiners for
observable behavior symptoms relevant to the issue of truthfulness or deception.
If practicable, the examination room should be equipped with a hidden microphone
so that person in the observation room may hear the questioning as well as witness what
take place in the examination room only those persons who have relevant purpose and/or
interest to the case or in the polygraph technique should be permitted access to the
observation room.

Since the test must be conducted under condition of privacy, in order for the
examiner to safeguard himself against the possibility of subsequent accusation of
misconduct, either physical abuse or sexual abuse toward a female subject a secretary
preferably female in the observation room should be designated for this will afford protection
as to the female subjects.

Moreover, There are additional advantages to an observation room A subject in

police custody can be watched by his guards to prevent escape and the viewing may afford
protection to the examiner from physical harm and against damage to the instrument by a
subject in an attempt to spoil an effective examination.

5. OTHER CONSIDERATIONS.

In order to conduct a satisfactory lie-detector test, the following must also be considered:

●It is advisable for the examiner to obtain from the investigators interested in the case all the
available facts and circumstances forming the basis of the accusations or suspicion directed
against the person to be examined 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.

●The subject 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 instruments will not cause any physical pain except for a slight
temporary discomfort occasioned by the blood pressure cuff.

●The subject should understand the following statements “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 let me hear the truth. That is fair enough, isn’t it?
And you don’t mind taking the test do you? 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, asking the subject’s consent has proved
worthwhile in those cases where the criminal confessions are obtained as a result of the test.

As an important reminder to the examiner, the

Following must be considered:

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

WHAT IS THE USUAL DURATION OF A POLYGRAPH TESTING?

Polygraph examination normally takes from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the purpose of the
examination as well as the subject’s attitude and any other factors that causes lengthy
examination.
Examination sometimes may be very short due to the confession of the subject during the
process of the test or may be prolonged when an examiner seeks to resolve inconsistent or
inconclusive patterns of responses.
The actual questioning aspect aspect of the examination, which may be repeated three or
four times and lasts no longer than few minutes for each questions Limits maybe set in some
cases, because the blood pressure cuff can be inflated for 10 to12 minutes causing the
subject undue discomfort.

WHAT ARE THE PROCEDURES PHASES FOLLOWED IN THE POLYGRAPH

TECHNIQUE?

There are several phases to follow in polygraph examination and they are as follows:

PHASE I

PRELIMINARY PREPARTIONS

This stage is the initial interview with the investigator handling the case or person requesting
it the group involve in this stage are the victim or the complainant, suspect and witnesses

This stage includes obtaining and evaluation of facts, determining areas the subject needs to
be asked and the investigator must furnish the examiner of the following:

√ Sworn statement of the suspect/witnesses/victim/complainant

√ Incident or spot report B.I of the suspect, witnesses, and victims or complainants
√Rough sketch such as specific article and exact amount of money stolen.
√Peculiar aspect of the offense or any strange set.
√Exact time the offense was committed.
√Known facts about the suspect’s action or movement
√Facts indicating any connection between the suspects, victim and witnesses
√Exact type of weapon, tool or firearms used
√Result of laboratory test
√Unpublished facts of the offense known only by the victim, suspects and the investigator

PRELIMINARY OBSERVATIONS

Behavioral observations of the subject begin from the time he enter the reception room until
he is escorted into the examination room and must be recorded by a secretary or
receptionist
What to observe are the subject’s general conduct or behavior while in the waiting room this
will give the examiner a clue or guide in the most effective handling of the subject,
particularly with regard to his possible resentment toward the test or other attitudes which
should be understood and alleviated before the actual administration of the test,

In addition, Observation may be solicited from the investigator as to the subject’s behavior
from the notification of the test up to the arrival at the laboratory notes should be made of
any illogical or unreasonable objections to taking the test such as “strange “physical ailments
that are sometimes devised by the subject in an attempt to avoid taking the test.

PHASE II

THE PRE-TEST INTERVIEW

This is the stage of interview of the subject. The primary purpose of the pre-test interview is
to prepare or condition the subject for the test the following should be taken considerations:
√The appraisal of subject’s constitutional right
√Obtain subject’s consent to undergo polygraph test by signing a statement of consent
√The taking of personal data of the subject
√Determining his/her suitability as a subject
√Evaluating the psychological preparation of the subject
√Informing the subject of his involvement with the case
The following rights of the subject must be informed clearly to him/her:
a. The right to remain silent
b. Anything he/she say may be used in favor or against him/her.
c. The right to have a lawyer of his/her own choice.
d. Right to refuse
As earlier noted, subject will not be scheduled for examination when they are obviously
fatigued or in ill health, physically injured or in pain, their judgment is obviously influenced by
or impaired by drugs or alcohol, or have just suffered emotional trauma the examiner’s
interview with the subject prior to the test is of considerable importance both for the purpose
of in order to provoke and observe the helpful indications of guilt and innocence which are
often forthcoming at this time.

The following is the detailed outline of the pretest interview which has been found to be
effective (We assume that subject has already been advised of the fact that he is to be given
a lie-detector test)

a. As the examiner enters the waiting room to request the subject to company him into
the examination room, the greeting which the examiner extend should be cordial, but
firm.
b. 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.
c. Then fill up the necessary data asked in the interrogation log.
d. Afterwards inquire from the subject whether he has been on lie detector test before.
No further comment should listen carefully to whatever the subject himself may say.
e. 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 warrant.
 Example of Polygraph Examination Statement of Consent

In the presence of witnesses, whose signature appear below my rights against self-
incrimination have been explained to me by the polygraph examiner of the ____crime
Laboratory He/She informed me that I have the right to remain silent that anything I have a
lawyer on my own choice or the one appointed to me: that this examination is being
conducted in connection with the investigation of ________________________of which I
am_______________

He/She further explained to me the nature of the polygraph examination and the facts that I
cannot be required to submit said examination without any consent.

Understanding my rights as stated above, I hereby voluntarily without force coercion

unlawful influences, promise of reward clemency or immunity submit to a polygraph
examination with I _____________________20___________

Examinee

Witnesses:

Legal Counsel:

Examiner:
 Example of Pre-test interview Form

PERSONAL DATA OF THE SUBJECT

Case No:

Name: Age:

Address:

Place of Birth: Date of Birth: Civil

Status:

Height: Weight: Built: Religion:

Complexion: Scars:

Marks: Amputation of any:

Occupation: Contact No:

Education:

Hobbies:

Previous Examination:

Previous Hospitalization:

Time Slept Last night: Time woke up:

Physical Condition:

Medicine Taken: Dosage: Time:

Physician’s Comment:

Wine/Alcohol Taken: Quantity: Time:

Comprehension:

Subject Version:

Behavior During the:

Initial Interview:

Question Review:

During The Test:

_________Cooperative ____Uncooperative _____Body

movement

_________Extreme Nervousness _____failed to Follow Instruction____Evasive

Tactics
After the Test:

____Leave room immediately _____Inquire about result

____Wait for instruction to leave

Remarks made:

___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
______

Interviewer/Interrogator

PHASE III

THE EXAMINATION PROPER

After the pre-test interview the examiner should proceed to the placement or attachment of
polygraph sensor. The first to be attached is the Pneumograph followed by
Cardiosphygmograph and the Galvanograph sensor.

Review all the question with the subject before the actual examination is made the examiner
should discourage any comments or statement by the subject test instrument must be given
to the subject upon completion of the necessary preliminary preparation.

The instrument is attached to the subject then:

a. The blood pressure pulse cuff is wrapped around the subject upper arm or bicep and
the pneumograph tube adjusted around the chest and abdomen
b. 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.
c. 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 six (6) to twelve (12) inches per minute, then ten
(10) to fifteen (15) 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.
d. During the test the subject is informed that he will be asked several questions which
should be answered by either “yes” or “no” only and that they are so brief and straight
to the point.
 e. Approximately five (5) to ten (10) seconds after this instruction first question is asked
and them the other question follows after or at the interval of fifteen (15) or twenty
(20) seconds.

Take note: The question may be written in advance of the test or in the course of the test
during the intervals between the asking of each question the phraseology of the test
question is an extremely important aspect of the examination. The question must, be states
as simply as possible, and with a complete avoidance of such double inquires as “Did you
shoot him and the run into the house”? All questions must have only a single, unambiguous
meaning Avoid lengthy question and avoid legal terms such as rape murder, embezzlement,
etc.

Limiting Scope of Question-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
following standard test question:

Irrelevant question (unleaded/immaterial question)-These are questions pertaining to the

issue under investigation It is equally important to limit the number of relevant question to
avoid discomfort to the subject relevant question must be very specific to obtain an accurate
result.

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

The Stimulation Tests

The examiner then inspects the chart and asks the subject about his or her reaction to the
question the usual purpose for obtaining subject’s reaction is to allow refinements in the
question the questions are reviewed again, and when necessary, further clarified. The
examiner may then administer a stimulation test, designed to improve test validity the
examiner will then continue to test and obtain two or three more charts in the same way.

The examiner may use other Stimulation tests between charts, and different questioning
techniques to record different charts different questioning techniques may then be used
based on information revealed by the subject in most techniques, any new questions would
be discussed with the subject before being asked.

Polygraph examiner typically conduct what is known as a “stimulation” or “stim” test,

designed to further convince subject of the accuracy of the polygraph examination.
Stimulation test are intended to reassure truthful subjects and provoke anxiety in deceptive
subjects, their effect should be to increase differential responses of deceptive and non-
deceptive subject to different to different questions in the examination

Stimulation test increases the validity of polygraph examination although not actually a part
of the pre-test stimulation test can be given either before the first actual set of test questions
or after the first chart has been recorded. The most common “stim” test is a “number” or
“card” test. A subject is instructed to select, from a deck, a card that has a number, word or
suit on the back or to write a number within a certain range. The examiner then may repeat a
range of suits, numbers or a set of words, asking the subject if each is the concealed item.
The suit, number, or word that is actually the concealed item is supposed to provoke the
greatest, Physiological response often, the examiner will show the subject the polygram (i.e.
the actual chart recordings) to further convince subject of the instrument’s efficacy.
Obtain Blood Pressure Tracing

Pen balance is critical the pen is to be held on paper by friction 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 geometric mean pressure, plus
diastolic, watch your sphyg-dial when inflating the pressure, for maximum deflection.

Obtaining Proper Tracing of the Pneumograph

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.

Obtaining Proper tracing in the Galvanograph

Depending on the model of instrument, turn power switch from off and on position When the
galvo pen falls to the bottom of the chart, it is then ready for operation from 15 to 18 seconds
after you turned the switch to an “ON” position.

Application of the electrodes to the subject

Position the hands or tip of fingers for convenience, adjust the sensitivity

Sensitivity test

Have subject take a deep breath or touch subject’s ear or neck or make a quick motion
within subject’s line of vision.

Technical Production of tracings

For CARDIO tracings:

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 tambour increases
pressure against the bellows and forces the bellow forward This forward movement
provides power to move the pen fork 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 bellow to its original position
is transmitted to the pen forks 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

For PNEUMO Tracing:

1. Ascending limb- with the expansion of the chest during inhalation the air capacity in
the pneumograph tube is increased creating a vacuum within the system, which
reduces the internal-surface pressure against the bellow thus moving the bellow
backward causing a lateral clockwise or upward stroke 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.

For the Galvo Tracings:

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- Physical cause is caused by a reverse in the 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.
Mechanical cause is 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.

WHAT IS THE STANDARD COMPUTING RATE?

The graph paper is lined and spaced in seconds It is moving under pens a uniform rate 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 Count 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.

Phase IV

THE POST-TEST INTERVIEW

This stage 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 purpose of further questioning after the test are:

a. To clarify the findings;

b. To learn if there are any other reason for the subject’s responding to a relevant
question other than the knowledge of the crime; and
c. To obtain additional information and an admission for law enforcement purposes,
if the result suggest deception.