Accession Number:

ADA505303

Title:

Effects of Comparison Question Type and Between Test Stimulation on the Validity of Comparison Question Test

Descriptive Note:

Final rept. 28 Sep 2007-8 Sep 2009

Corporate Author:

BOISE STATE UNIV ID

Personal Author(s):

• Honts, Charles R.
• Reavy, Racheal

Report Date:

2009-09-08

Pagination or Media Count:

47.0

Abstract:

This study examined the validity of two approaches to the comparison question test. Probable-lie and directed-lie comparison questions were evaluated in a mock crime experiment with 250 participants. Review of questions between charts was also manipulated Participants took a DACA style single issue polygraph examination. Resultant polygraph data were evaluated with the Objective Scoring System. Analyses found no evidence for significant differences between the validity of the probable-lie and directed-lie approaches. However, there was a significant effect of between repetition stimulation on decisions, reflecting an increased number of true positive outcomes when stimulation was employed and a higher number of false positive errors without stimulation. Although there were no significant effects of the approach to comparison questions, there is much to recommend the directed-lie approach It is simpler and far more standardized. It is easy to teach and to use. A very small number of directed-lie questions can be used for essentially all examinations. These and other positive factors suggest that the directed-lie should be considered for wider application in field settings. The significant positive effect for between repetition stimulation recommends this practice for adoption in the field.

Descriptors:

• *DECEPTION
• *LIE DETECTORS
• *COMPARISON
• DECISION MAKING
• SCORING
• FIELD CONDITIONS
• CRIMES
• REPETITION RATE
• STIMULATION(GENERAL)
• TEST AND EVALUATION
• ERRORS

Subject Categories:

• Psychology

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE