What Are We Teaching Future Australian Criminal Justice Practitioners About Lie Detection? A Review of Criminology Textbooks

The use of fallible lie detection methods by criminal justice practitioners contributes to inaccurate convictions. Research suggests that most people believe liars will avert their gaze and display nervous-type behaviors; however, psychological research illustrates that these beliefs are incorrect. Myths about liars' behavior should be debunked for those seeking careers in the Australian criminal justice system to ensure future law enforcers do not use fallible lie detection methods. However, research regarding what Australian criminal justice students are taught about lie detection is lacking. This study reviewed required textbooks for criminal justice-focused degrees in Queensland, Australia. Ninety-five textbooks were examined, seven discussed deception detection, and only four highlighted issues pertaining to the fallibility of nonverbal lie detection. This study's findings suggest lie detection is not adequately addressed in criminal justice and criminology degrees. Recommendations are made for inclusion of empirically supported information about lie detection for criminology and criminal justice students.