Polygraphy (Lie Detection) Comprehensive Laboratory Review

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering major polygraph components, attachments, examination preparation, interview/interrogation tactics, testing techniques, chart marking, and legal status in the Philippines.

Pneumograph

The polygraph component that records breathing patterns using two hollow corrugated tubes that are approximately 7–10 inches long.

Galvanograph

The polygraph component that records Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) or electrodermal responses using electrodes attached to the left index and ring fingers.

Cardiosphygmograph

The polygraph component consisting of a blood pressure cuff (attached to the upper right arm), a hand pump, and a sphygmomanometer.

Kymograph

The polygraph component used to determine pulse rate and question spacing, with vertical chart lines corresponding to intervals of 5 or 10 seconds.

Beaded Chain

The attachment used to secure the pneumograph tubes around the subject's chest and abdomen.

Pen Lifter

A mechanism that raises or lowers the polygraph recording pens to three different positions.

Paper Tear Bar

A component that provides a sharp cutting edge for convenient removal of chart paper from the instrument.

Foam Pen Hold-Down

A component that keeps the polygraph pens securely in place while transporting the instrument.

Program Pacer

A feature that provides visual or timing cues for proper question and answer spacing during an examination.

Attaché Compartment

A storage compartment within the instrument case used to store forms and testing supplies.

Galvanic Skin Response Module

The specific module responsible for recording the subject's GSR channel activity.

Multi-function Module

A versatile polygraph module that can function as an electronic pneumo channel or an electronic cardio channel.

Power Analyzer

A device that automatically checks whether the electrical wall outlet is properly wired and grounded.

Stimulus Marker

A device used by the examiner to mark significant events or stimuli directly on the chart paper.

Sphygmomanometer Dial

A visual dial used to read the operating pressure inside the cardio channels.

Pneumo 1

The specific polygraph channel connection designated for the upper thoracic pneumograph.

Pneumo 2

The specific polygraph channel connection designated for the lower abdominal pneumograph.

Resonance Control

A control that allows the examiner to refine or improve the recorded pattern when excessive pulse pressure occurs.

Hand Electrode

A component designed to establish proper electrical contact with the subject during testing.

Panel Control

A control component that allows the operator to manually adjust the operation of the galvanograph.

Sensor Attachment Sequence

The required chronological order for applying sensors: 1st - Pneumograph tubes; 2nd - EDA fingerplate electrode assembly; 3rd - Cardio cuff assembly.

Transducers

Devices in digital polygraph systems that convert displaced air into electronic signals.

Polygraph Examination Room

A semi-soundproof room free from extraneous noises, ideally fitted with a one-way mirror leading to an observation room for co-examiners.

Pre-test Interview

The initial examination stage where the examiner determines subject suitability, explains the instrument and process, reviews rights, evaluates health conditions, and obtains a signed Statement of Consent.

Statement of Consent

A legal document signed by the subject to grant voluntary consent to undergo a polygraph examination.

Instrumental Test

The polygraph phase during which physiological responses are recorded as the subject answers binary (Yes or No) questions, followed by approximately 2-minute relaxation periods.

Cognitive/Narrative Interview

An interview approach utilized when a witness is capable of narrating a full, continuous account of how the crime was committed.

Question and Answer Interview

An interview technique used when a witness cannot provide a complete narrative account independently.

Interrogation

The process of obtaining a formal confession or admission from criminal suspects.

Confession

A direct statement admitting guilt for committing a crime.

Admission

A statement acknowledging specific facts or circumstances of a case without directly admitting guilt.

Extra-judicial Confession

A confession made outside of open court, such as during a custodial investigation.

Judicial Confession

A confession made formally by the accused in open court.

Voluntary Confession

A confession made freely and spontaneously without force, threats, or coercion.

Involuntary Confession

A confession extracted through force, threats, intimidation, or physical/psychological coercion.

Emotional Appeal Tactic

An interrogation technique utilizing acting and psychological skills to emotionally appeal to the suspect.

Sympathetic Approach

An interrogation technique where the investigator displays genuine sympathy toward the suspect's personal struggles.

Mutt and Jeff Technique

An interrogation tactic employing two teams of investigators—one acting stern and aggressive, and the other acting sympathetic and helpful.

Projection Tactic

An interrogation technique that places blame or responsibility onto parties other than the suspect.

Minimization Tactic

An interrogation technique aimed at downplaying or minimizing the suspect's individual moral or legal responsibility.

General Questions Test (GQT)

A standard polygraph test technique categorizing questions into relevant, irrelevant, and control types.

Card/Number Test

Also known as the Simulation or Verification Test, a technique utilizing seven number cards to verify responsiveness.

Spot Responder Test (SRT)

A polygraph test that uses the same questions as the GQT but presents them in a different sequence.

Mixed Questions Test (MQT)

A polygraph test using the standard GQT questions presented in no particular sequence.

Silent Answer Test

A polygraph test format where the subject is instructed to mentally answer questions without vocalizing responses.

Yes Test

A supplementary polygraph test applied when distortions or deceits are detected in initial testing.

Guilt Complex Test

A test format applied when there is doubt surrounding the subject's previous answers.

Peak of Tension Test

A test format utilizing seven prepared questions, applicable when the subject is unaware of specific unreleased details of the offense.

Zone Comparison Technique (ZCT)

A structured polygraph method comparing physiological reactions to predetermined question types divided across three zones.

Relevant Questions

Questions directly connected to the criminal offense or matter under investigation.

Comparison Questions

Questions designed to establish a baseline physiological response for comparison, having no direct connection to the main case.

Neutral Questions

Questions dealing with verified personal background or general facts, used to establish baseline tracings.

Quadri-track Zone Comparison Technique

A ZCT method utilizing four distinct tracks: Pre-test Baseline Track, Question Presentation Track, Comparison Track, and Post-test Assessment Track.

Chart Marking

The process of rapidly and accurately annotating symbols and notes directly on the polygraph chart during testing, standardized by Cleve Backster in 1959.

Polygram

The complete physical or digital recording composed of galvanograph, cardiograph, and pneumograph tracings.

Specific Response

A noticeable physiological rise or fall deviating from baseline; simultaneous specific responses across all three channels indicate a high likelihood of deception.

Polygraph Status in the Philippines

Polygraph results are not widely accepted or admissible in Philippine courts due to a lack of governing legislation, serving primarily as an investigative aid, though they may be admitted during pre-trial investigations or if the opposing party raises no objection.

Polygraph Validity

The accuracy of a test in identifying deceit versus honesty, which can be compromised by anxiety or nervousness.

Polygraph Reliability

The consistency of test measurements under identical circumstances, including consistent interpretation across different competent examiners.