Skip to: Content
Skip to: Site Navigation
Skip to: Search

November 21, 2008 4:32:17 PM CST

Learn about Newser Points »

« Back to the grid | Next story »

No Lie: Polygraphs On the Rise

Posted Mar 22, 08 1:00 PM CDT in US,  Crime & Courts 

(Newser) – Despite lingering reservations about its effectiveness, the polygraph is gaining traction with law enforcement. The lie-detection program has spiked 53% in the last decade, and truth be told, just the threat of a test keeps convicts honest, drug addicts and sex offenders told the Wall Street Journal. “Don’t believe anyone who tells you polygraph doesn’t work,” one Oregon pedophile said.

Critics maintain the nearly century-old test fails about 10% of the time. Subjects can fool it, experts add, by biting their tongues and squeezing their gluteal muscles. One study concluded polygraphs perform “well above chance, though well below perfection.” Still, police use them to catch parole-violating convicts. “With polygraph, they know they’re going to be found out,” explained a researcher.

Source Wall Street Journal

0 comments | Print E-mail | Digg Seed this on Newsvine Add this link to Del.icio.us StumbleUpon
Polygraph tests are inaccurate about 10% of the time, experts say.   (AP Photo/Fernando Vergara)
Many courts have ruled that polygraphs don't violate Fifth Amendment rights.   (AP Photo/Fernando Vergara)
A study suggests polygraphs can reveal activities that could lead to relapse for convicts.   (Index Stock)
« Prev« Prev | Next »Next » Slideshow
Michael Shermer Tests the Polygraph and Lie Detection Part 1   (MichaelShermer (YouTube))

« Prev« Prev | Next »Next »
Our editors also recommend:

Threads (
1
 of 2)

Tags

Texas • Colorado • Denver • Houston • Oregon • Dallas • sex offenders • domestic violence • MRI • parole • polygraph



Today's Most Popular

Loading...

Other Crime & Courts Stories

What is Newser?

2008 Codie Finalist

Face it: there's too much news. At Newser a team of editors and writers culls the most important stories from hundreds of U.S. and international sources and reduces them to a headline, picture, and two paragraphs. It's the Newser guarantee: we can take any report or column or video and pack what you need to know into 120 words or less. Newser's short-form aggregation, visual format, and unique information tools help you get more of the kind of news you want, in a quicker and more entertaining way. And we do it 24/7—you can come back morning, noon, night (and in between) for something new that matters. Read less, know more.

Learn more »