Statement Verification Testing (SVT) is a critical tool within polygraphy, primarily utilized to verify the accuracy of written statements from individuals such as suspects, victims, and witnesses. This polygraph test is designed to confirm the authenticity of statements based on firsthand knowledge, focusing on specific events or a series of events. Despite its valuable applications, SVT is known for its lower accuracy compared to other polygraph formats and is generally not advised for criminal or critical single-issue contexts due to its broad scope.
Overview of Statement Verification Testing
SVT employs a polygraph to evaluate the truthfulness of a detailed written statement prepared by an individual. Unlike the Therapeutic Disclosure which deals with personal and relationship issues over an extended period, SVT focuses strictly on the factual accuracy of specific events as stated by the examinee.
Challenges and Procedures in SVT
The test uses a multi-facet format to assess the entire statement’s truthfulness, rather than analyzing responses to individual questions. This comprehensive but less precise method is one reason why SVT is not preferred for high-stakes legal proceedings.
Key Procedures for SVT Include:
- Advance Preparation: Examinees are required to draft their statements well ahead of the test, focusing on clarity and factual accuracy. Examiners guide examinees to avoid subjective or ambiguous terms, which are revised during the pre-test review.
- Document Review: Prior to testing, the examiner edits the statement for clarity and relevance, ensuring each section is numbered for easy reference.
- Question Formulation: Depending on whether a Probable Lie Test (PLT) or Directed Lie Test (DLT) is used, questions are crafted to test the honesty of the examinee or to pose neutral questions unrelated to the statement’s content.
- Testing Execution: Consistency in question delivery is crucial to maintain the integrity of the test.
Ethical Considerations and Question Integrity
It’s imperative that the test remains focused on the statement provided without straying into additional inquiries that could introduce bias or reduce the test’s accuracy. Furthermore, the statement should only contain factual data, avoiding subjective or inferred content.
Examples of SVT Questions
To illustrate, here are types of questions that might be included in an SVT, particularly using the PLT format:
- Have you ever deliberately misled someone on a matter of importance?
- Have you ever fabricated a story to avoid consequences?
- Have you ever deceived someone for personal advantage?
- Have you ever falsely accused another person?
- Do you believe there are circumstances where deceit is justified?
- Do you think falsifying a document can ever be justified?
- Would you lie to avoid repercussions?
- Would you shift blame to another for your errors?
- Have you engaged in dishonest actions?
- Have you acted in ways that could undermine someone’s trust in you?
These questions are designed to probe the examinee’s general honesty and integrity, providing a backdrop to their statement’s credibility.
Language Precision in Statements
The language used in the statement must be direct and devoid of legal jargon or subjective interpretations. For example, instead of saying, “Michael forcibly detained me,” the statement should be clear and descriptive like, “Michael blocked the exit, preventing me from leaving the room.” This specificity ensures that the language is straightforward and verifiable.
Conclusion
Statement Verification Testing, while complex, is an essential part of polygraph examinations, especially useful for validating the statements of victims and witnesses. Its effectiveness relies on thorough preparation, clear and direct communication, and strict adherence to procedural and ethical standards, ensuring that each statement is evaluated with the highest degree of objectivity.
