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Effects of Augmented Physiological Feedback on Detection of Deception

NCJ Number
233839
Journal
Polygraph Volume: 39 Issue: 4 Dated: 2010 Pages: 216-232
Author(s)
Robert M. Stern; John C. Kircher
Date Published
2010
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This study sought to increase the reliability and validity of the physiological measures obtained during a conventional comparison question polygraph test, and to reduce habituation to repeated exposures to polygraph questions through the use of augmented physiological feedback (APF).
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of two types of augmented physiological feedback (APF) on the reliability and accuracy of probable-lie comparison question tests (CQT). Two hundred and ten college students participated in the study, half of whom were guilty of a mock crime and half innocent. During questioning, one group received skin conductance feedback, a second group received composite feedback (skin conductance, cardiograph, and respiration), and a third group received no feedback. The results indicated that APF did not increase detection rates above that of the no-feedback group in this study. However, APF did decrease the rate of habituation during repetition of the question sequences thus allowing for greater discrimination between innocent and guilty participants as the CQT progressed. (Published Abstract) Figures, tables, and references