Psychology
Understanding Mind, Behavior, and Justice
A modern overview of psychology and its forensic applications—featuring core concepts and the blue‑icon toolkit used by practitioners: Profiling, Polygraph, BEOS, and Narco Analysis.
Mind & Behavior
at every life stage
Applied Science
in courts & labs
Public Safety
through evidence‑based insights
Division & Subject Head :
Shri. V. V. Patil
Designation :
Deputy Director
Email :
vasudev.patil@mah.gov.in
Phone :
91 9930153262
What is Psychology?
Psychology is the study of mind and behavior. The discipline embraces all aspects of the human experience—from the functions of the brain to the actions of nations, from child development to care for the aged. In settings ranging from scientific research centers to mental‑healthcare services, understanding behavior is the enterprise of psychologists (Source: American Psychological Association).
What is Forensic Psychology?
Forensic Psychology is a branch of applied psychology concerned with the collection of information, analysis, and presentation of evidence in crime cases for judicial purposes. It applies psychological knowledge to civil and criminal justice systems (Bartol, 2004).
Techniques Available in This Department
a) Psychological Profiling
Compiles a subject’s personal history—family background, childhood development, marital life, medical and personality factors. Case‑related details are recorded in the subject’s own words, then cross‑checked with the Investigating Officer’s (IO) account and reconciled for discrepancies.
b) Polygraph (Lie Detector) Test
A non‑invasive procedure based on the psychophysiological principle that deceptive responses can trigger Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) arousal detectable in bodily functions. Application: aids investigations by detecting deception and assessing a suspect’s involvement.
c) Brain Electrical Oscillation Signature (BEOS) Profiling
An EEG‑based approach grounded in neuroscience, designed to detect experiential knowledge gained by participating in a crime (distinct from general conceptual familiarity). Crime‑related probes may evoke remembrance, producing characteristic oscillatory changes measured and analyzed by a Neuro Signature System (NSS) for forensic use.
d) Narco Analysis
An invasive technique where a barbiturate (Sodium Pentothal) is administered in small increments to induce an altered state of consciousness. Investigators ask case‑related questions while maintaining a light anesthetic state (e.g., slurred speech, motor restlessness). The drug transiently reduces frontal‑lobe‑mediated inhibition, making the subject more relaxed and conversant.
Legal & Ethical Considerations
Methods such as polygraph, BEOS, and narco analysis are subject to jurisdiction‑specific laws, court admissibility standards, informed consent, and medical safeguards. Usage typically complements—not replaces—traditional investigation.
When to Use Each Technique
Profiling: early behavioral insights and interview planning.
Polygraph: screening or specific‑issue testing to guide leads.
BEOS: probing potential experiential memory traces of events.
Narco: exceptional scenarios under strict medical‑legal protocols.