Investigator-Initiated Research Proposal:Assessing the Validity of Voice Stress Analysis Tools in a Jail Setting

This project is expected to test the extent to which Voice Stress Analysis (VSA) devices can detect attempts to deceive. This project proposes to assess the validity of two of the more popular VSA tools currently on the market (Layered Voice Analysis and a Computer Voice Stress Analyzer) among a group of arrestees. Both devices are composed of software programs that record responses and then test the responses for deception. The primary objective of the project is to test these instruments with recently booked arrestees in the Oklahoma and Tulsa County jails and ascertain deceptiveness or not of arrestee(s) in reference to drug use. Urine analysis results will be compared to verbal interview information. A secondary objective is to collect data regarding 'use' of methamphetamine by arrestees in reference to a law passed in Oklahoma in 2004. ca/ncf