Recent Trends in Research on the Polygraph Tests

Abstract

The past decade witnessed several significant advances in research on the psychophysiological information detection technique known as the Concealed Information Test (CIT). This article focuses on the autonomic-based CIT and reviews conceptual, theoretical, and technical advances since 2010. Theoretical advances include the response fractionation approach proposed as a refinement of the conventional orienting response approach. The validity of the CIT was confirmed using multiple measures in addition to the traditional skin conductance response measure. Furthermore, several studies focused on improving the measurement and analyses of physiological signals, a domain in which Japanese researchers have made significant contributions. Additionally, this article reviews findings on physiological variations within the question series and discusses their theoretical and practical implications. Finally, current challenges and future directions in CIT research are discussed. The article concludes that Japan is uniquely positioned in CIT research and application. Therefore, the Japanese Society for Physiological Psychology and Psychophysiology is expected to grow in significance as a scholarly communication platform.