The Future of Deception Detection: Using Brain Waves to Detect Guilty Knowledge

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

Advances in psychophysiological research has led to an adaption of the polygraph Guilty Knowledge Test to a novel approach that measures brainwave activity with an electroencephalogram (EEG). Empirical evidence for this new paradigm – the P300-GKT – demonstrates its high levels of specificity (correct identification of guilt) and sensitivity (correct identification of innocence), and its resistance to countermeasures. Unlike polygraphy, the P300-GKT does not require polygraphers to ask subjects questions or inference of guilt from autonomic arousal or behavioural responses. Rather, the P300-GKT presents subjects with a series of stimuli and their neurological responses are analysed for a specific type of brainwave that indexes recognition of previously acquired information. Only recently has P300-GKT research expanded beyond word-based stimuli to pictures of objects and facial recognition, bringing us one step closer to real-world application in criminal justice settings. The research reported here explores whether the P300-GKT paradigm can be used to reliability detect guilty knowledge of faces and also compares whether detection varies depending on how knowledge is acquired. Results indicate that guilty knowledge of faces can be effectively detected with the P300-GKT and that detection does not significantly differ when guilty knowledge is acquired incidentally or through longer-term exposure.

Author

• Elizabeth Eggins, University of Queensland