The problems of psychophysiological research: a criminological aspect

The development and promotion of new research result in new problems. Psychophysiological research with the use of a polygraph is one of such examples. It has been commonly used for a long time and its purpose is to obtain criminalistic information which is significant for the criminal case. However, the problems of legal nature of psychophysiological research, its role in criminal procedure and legal immunity of people under interrogation have not been resolved yet. A polygraph can be used in criminal procedure as technical equipment for the fixation of the psychophysiological state of a testifying person to obtain some information necessary for the planning of investigation, setting out and examining investigative leads. Thus, the tactical peculiarities of psychophysiological research are of practical importance. The polygraph interprets psychophysiological reactions of a testifying person to different impacts and states the presence of ideal traces of a definite event or its elements in the memory of a person. This enables the investigator to be sure in the correctness of their lead. The polygraph can be used only on the voluntary consent of the person under interrogation and after a consultation with their lawyer. It has been noted that the procedure of research is as important as the questions asked by a polygraphist. Psychophysiological research with the use of a polygraph consists of several stages: a pre-test conversation; a stimulating test; testing in a strict sequence and in accordance with scientifically proved methods which are described in scientific literature and officially accepted; announcement of test results to the person under examination. Both the theoretical analysis and the analysis of the criminal procedural aspect of psychophysiological research and its results should be made taking into account the nature of ideal traces. It is necessary to bear in mind the possible relationship between psychic and physiological phenomena. Ideal traces are always changing. Psychophysiological research with the help of a polygraph enables us to examine and objectify ideal traces.

Keywords

Authors

References