Polygraph Glossary Technique

total chart minutes concept

Definition

The total chart minutes concept (TCMC) was offered by Cleve Backster (1963) to account for possible variation in habituation rates across physiological channels over time. It has not received much research attention and is not currently taught in the field.

What Is the Total Chart Minutes Concept?

The total chart minutes concept (TCMC) was offered by Cleve Backster (1963) to account for possible variation in habituation rates across physiological channels over time. It has not received much research attention and is not currently taught in the field.

Historical and Modern Context

The evolution of polygraph instrumentation — from early mechanical devices to modern digital systems — reflects the broader advancement of the field from subjective interpretation to validated, structured test data analysis. Modern instruments from manufacturers such as Lafayette, Limestone, and Stoelting incorporate multiple measurement channels, digital recording, and computerised scoring capabilities.

Professional Context

This concept forms part of the knowledge base expected of qualified forensic psychophysiologists. Training at APA-accredited schools covers the theoretical foundations, practical applications, and research evidence underlying all aspects of polygraph methodology. Ongoing continuing education ensures practitioners stay current with developments in the field.

Cross-references

More technique terms in this glossary

Black Zone In Backster's Zone Comparison Test, the portion of the question sequence containing symptomatic (outside-issue) quest... Irrelevant Question A neutral question in a polygraph test designed to produce minimal physiological response (e.g., "Is today Tuesday?" ... Probable-Lie Comparison Question A type of comparison question designed so that most examinees will answer "No" even though the truthful answer is lik... Modified Relevant Irrelevant technique The Modified Relevant/Irrelevant (MRI) technique is a specific-issue PDD format based on the Keeler R/I but using sit... straight-through test A straight-through test (ST) is a Reid polygraph test using the standard question sequence, conducted before other se... autogenic training Autogenic training is a form of self-hypnosis in which individuals learn to induce a state of profound relaxation thr...

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