Deception detection based on neuroimaging: Better than the polygraph?. (March 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Meijer, Ewout H.; Verschuere, Bruno
• Is Part Of: Journal of forensic radiology and imaging. Volume 8(2017)
• Page Start: 17
• Page End: 21
• Publication Date: 2017-03
• Subjects: Forensic radiography -- Periodicals; Magnetic resonance imaging -- Periodicals; Diagnostic imaging -- Periodicals; Diagnostic imaging; Forensic radiography; Magnetic resonance imaging; Periodicals; 614.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jofri.2017.03.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2212-4780

Abstract

Abstract: Polygraph tests have been used to detect deception for almost a century. Yet for almost as long, the validity of these tests has been criticized. Over the last decade, the use of brain imaging – most notably fMRI - for the detection of deception has attracted increased attention. The expectation is that fMRI can overcome – at least some of - the shortcomings of the polygraph. In this review, we discuss whether this expectation is warranted. Based on our review of the empirical evidence, we argue that fMRI deception research has boosted the theory development of deception. But for practical purposes, fMRI research has thus far done surprisingly little to solve or circumvent the problems than have been associated with deception research for ages. Highlights: We review the literature on fMRI based deception detection. fMRI deception research has resulted in important theory development of deception. For practical purposes, fMRI research has done little to solve or circumvent the problems that have been associated with deception research for ages.