The words “deception” and “lie” are not automatically transposable. A person can be deceptive without actually lying. But, if you are lying, you are most definitely being deceptive. I know it may be difficult to grasp the concept, but give it a try. Think of it as interviewing a person who is beating around the bush when you ask a question. This is a common occurrence to experienced law enforcement professionals. The person may not be lying to you, but they are being deceptive. (You alleged law enforcement types on this board should know what I am talking about) An experienced law enforcement professional who conducts detailed and thorough interviews of victims, witnesses and suspects will understand. A person like this would have difficulty in “passing” a polygraph examination. That is to say, a deceptive result would be expected and certainly not surprising. That is where a highly skilled and professional examiner, such as Sackett, would conduct a post-test interview in an attempt to resolve the issue. It may seem as though this is “splitting hairs”, but that is a part of the sophistication of the polygraph profession.
“Lie detector” is a term of convenience utilized by lay people who do not understand the complexity of the discipline of Forensic Psychophysiological Detection of Deception.
And yes, it works, and works very well. Which is why I use it almost daily. Give me a better mouse trap and I’ll be glad to use it. Until then, I will continue to use what has shown to be successful, effective and legal.
de•cep•tion –noun
1. the act of deceiving; the state of being deceived
2. something that deceives or is intended to deceive; fraud; artifice.
Synonyms 2. trick, stratagem, ruse, wile, hoax, imposture.
Lie -noun
1. a false statement made with deliberate intent to deceive; an intentional untruth; a falsehood
2. something intended or serving to convey a false impression; imposture: His flashy car was a lie that deceived no one.
3. an inaccurate or false statement.
4. the charge or accusation of lying: He flung the lie back at his accusers.
5. to speak falsely or utter untruth knowingly, as with intent to deceive.
6. to express what is false; convey a false impression.
7. to bring about or affect by lying (often used reflexively): to lie oneself out of a difficulty; accustomed to lying his way out of difficulties.