Training for Individual Differences in Lie Detection Accuracy

Although technology has a vital role to play in the detection of potential terrorists, human lie detectors are also important in follow-up interviews and in situations where technology is not useable. Over the last ten years, researchers have become more sophisticated in designing experimental scenarios for use in lie detection research. In addition, more nuanced and specific descriptions of the behavioral clues to deception have been reported. Using more rigorous experimental protocols to examine the effectiveness of training programs to increase lie detection accuracy has resulted in several encouraging results. The importance of various protocol considerations in designing such training studies, and the importance of individual difference variables such as variation in lie detection accuracy at the start of the training, motivation to improve in lie detection, and the role of personal values in accurate lie detection are reviewed. Constraints in applying this information in the security context are also discussed.