This article discusses the myths and realities of deception detection, criminal behavioral analysis, and investigative interviews, using examples such as Jodi Arias, President Nixon, and President Clinton. The principles of fight-or-flight, cognitive complexity, and perception management are explored as ways of detecting deception, as well as verbal, nonverbal, and non-linguistic communication. The importance of drilling down into the details of confessions is highlighted, and the article emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to interpreting a person's behavior during interviews and interrogations.
1. There are myths about deception detection, such as certain gestures indicating deception, but there is no universal indicator of deception.
2. Criminal behavioral analysis covers criminal profiling, active listening, interview and interrogation, and deception detection.
3. Investigative interviews can be non-confrontational or interrogative, but the goal is to get accurate information.
4. Deception detection involves looking at many different types of indicators, including fight-or-flight, cognitive complexity, and perception management.
5. Verbal and nonverbal indicators of deception include changes in physical behavior, changes in speech patterns, and the use of certain words like "sort of" or "almost".
6. Assessing statements for deception involves looking at perception management, verbal, nonverbal, and non-linguistic verbal clues.
7. Confessions should be drilled down into and verified for consistency with known facts.
8. Behavioral analysis principles are used to determine the accuracy and reliability of confessions.