Polygraph Glossary Theory

Pinocchio response

Definition

The Pinocchio response is a nonexistent lie-specific physiological response. The term is used to highlight a common misconception: the polygraph does not work by detecting a magical \"lying signal.\" Instead it measures differential arousal patterns between question types.

What Is the Pinocchio Response?

The Pinocchio response is a nonexistent lie-specific physiological response. The term is used to highlight a common misconception: the polygraph does not work by detecting a magical "lying signal." Instead it measures differential arousal patterns between question types.

Cross-references

More theory terms in this glossary

punishment theory Punishment theory proposes that physiological arousal during deception is activated by fear of consequences if detect... conflict theory Conflict theory proposes that the simultaneous activation of conflicting motivations — the desire to lie versus the d... bogus pipeline The bogus pipeline (BPL) is a sociopsychological phenomenon where individuals make more candid disclosures when they ... confabulation Confabulation is the reporting of imagined experiences as genuine memories, without conscious intent to deceive. It c... recognition test Recognition tests are knowledge-based polygraph formats — including Peak of Tension, Acquaintance Test, and Concealed... law of intensity The law of intensity states that within limits, response magnitudes and stimulus intensities share a log-linear relat...

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