Arther Technique

What Is the Arther Technique?

The Arther technique is a probable-lie comparison question polygraph testing method developed by Richard O. Arther, building upon the foundations established by the Reid school of polygraph methodology. The technique is named after its creator and represents one of the early structured approaches to comparison question testing that emerged during the mid-twentieth century expansion of polygraph practice.

Key Features of the Arther Technique

The Arther technique has several distinctive characteristics that set it apart from other Comparison Question Test formats:

Known-Truth Pseudo-Relevant Question

One of the technique's most distinctive elements is the inclusion of a known-truth pseudo-relevant question in the test sequence. This is a question that appears to the examinee to be a relevant question about the issue under investigation but actually addresses a matter whose answer is already known to the examiner. The purpose is to provide an internal calibration point and to help assess the examinee's overall responsiveness pattern.

Behavioural Analysis Integration

The Arther technique places significant emphasis on behavioural indicators alongside physiological data in assessing deception. Arther trained examiners to observe and interpret verbal and non-verbal behaviour during the pre-test interview, test administration, and post-test interview as supplementary information for the overall assessment.

It is important to note that modern APA Standards of Practice now clearly state that diagnostic opinions must be based on validated physiological scoring methods (Test Data Analysis), not on behavioural observations alone. This represents a significant evolution from the era when the Arther technique was developed.

Question Construction

The Arther technique uses probable-lie comparison questions following the general principles of the Reid comparison question format (Non-Exclusive Comparison Questions). The question sequence and structure reflect the era's understanding of polygraph theory prior to the refinements introduced by Backster and the University of Utah researchers.

Historical Context

Richard O. Arther was a prominent polygraph examiner and instructor who operated a private practice and training school. He was a student of the Reid methodology and contributed to the development of structured polygraph testing during the 1960s and 1970s. His technique represented an attempt to systematise and improve upon the Reid approach by adding additional diagnostic elements.

The Arther technique was taught at several polygraph schools and was used by private practitioners and some law enforcement agencies during its period of active use.

Current Usage and Validation Status

The Arther technique is less commonly used in modern polygraph practice compared to more recently developed and validated techniques such as the Utah Zone Comparison Test, the Federal Zone Comparison Test, or directed-lie formats. The evolution of polygraph science toward evidence-based practice has favoured techniques with stronger published validation research.

Examiners and agencies selecting testing techniques should consult the APA's current list of validated techniques and use only approved formats with demonstrated accuracy rates. For current technique recommendations, visit the Polygraph Examiner Hub or explore our research database.