Recognition of False Testimony during Interrogation Using Psychotechnics

Abstract

Interrogation is the most common investigative action that is related to the identity of the
interrogated and the interrogator. In investigative practice, during the interrogation, especially
of suspects and accused, a conflict situation may develop, in which the subject of the interrogation gives false testimony. Depending on the procedural situation of the interrogated, the motives for giving false testimony may be different: the desire to avoid criminal liability, to mitigate the penalty, to conceal another more serious crime.
During the interrogation, it is sometimes difficult for the investigator to establish whether the interrogated person gives truthful or false testimony. In our opinion, for the recognition of lies, the interrogator should use elements of psychotechnics: observing the movement of the eyes, taking into account the peculiarities of voice and speech, facial expressions and gestures, demeanor, etc. A change in the subject’s behavior during interrogation (in particular, lowering or averting the eyes, changing the timbre of the voice, stuttering, increased sweating, rapid breathing and other reactions) is indicative of agitation and anxiety, which, in turn, are signs of giving false testimony.

Considering this circumstance, the investigator should observe the interrogated, analyze the content of his speech and evaluate his psychophysiological reactions in a complex.  This will allow the interrogator to recognize the giving of false testimony, to draw a conclusion about the expediency of using tactical methods of exposing lies during interrogation.