Analyzing Deceptive Speech

• Published in: Engineering Psychology and Cognitive Ergonomics. Understanding Human Cognition pp. 134 - 141
• Main Authors: Kirchhübel, Christin, Stedmon, Alex W., Howard, David M.
• Format: Book Chapter
• Language: English
• Published: Berlin, Heidelberg Springer Berlin Heidelberg 2013
• Series: Lecture Notes in Computer Science
• Subjects: Deception; Hesitations; Response Onset Time; Speaking Rate
• ISBN: 9783642393594; 3642393594
• ISSN: 0302-9743; 1611-3349
• DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-39360-0_15

This current work explored the speech-based attributes of participants who were being deceptive in an experimental interrogation setting. In particular, the study attempted to investigate the appropriateness of using temporal speech cues in detecting deception. Deceptive and control speech was elicited from nineteen speakers and the data was analyzed on a range of speech parameters including Speaking Rate (SR), Response Onset Time (ROT) and frequency and duration of Hesitation markers. The findings point to a significant increase in SR, a significant decrease in ROT and a reduction in hesitation phenomena in the deceptive condition suggesting an acceleration of overall speaking tempo. The potential significance of temporal parameters for detecting deception in speech is recognized. However, the complex and multifaceted nature of deceptive behaviour is highlighted and caution is advised when attempting veracity judgments based on speech.