5 Key Factors That Influence the Success or Detection of Deception

For those interested in lie detection, questions often arise about the effectiveness of these methods. To dispel excessive skepticism or, on the contrary, unrealistic expectations, here are the main factors that influence whether deception is successful or detected.

1. The Liar’s Experience

Experience is important in any field, and the ability to lie is no exception. Imagine a professional actor trained in the “Stanislavski system.” Before telling a lie, they evoke the appropriate feelings and emotions in themselves—as if the lie were the truth.

2. The Liar’s Personality Type

The ability to deceive is largely determined by personal qualities. Success depends on a high level of stress resistance (both experience and temperament), social intelligence, and a certain thrill-seeking nature. On the other hand, factors such as morality, feelings of guilt and shame, or the need to lie when it’s unfamiliar, can hinder successful deception.

3. The Degree of Risk for the Liar

Gambling is a clear example—the higher the stakes, the harder it is to manage stress. In other cases, the risks may involve not just financial gain or loss, but also reputational damage, loss of freedom, or even life.

4. Preparation of the Lie

The ability to quickly and spontaneously make things up can sometimes help a liar. However, not every personality type is capable of this. With preparation, lying becomes easier, and such lies are harder to detect. This is especially true for “legend building,” where the story contains many truthful details but omits or distorts key points.

5. The Context and Experience of the Verifier

Consider the difference between an elderly, trusting grandmother who receives a call from a phone scammer and a professional profiler or polygraph examiner who meets the same scammer in person, with sensors attached. The difference is obvious. An interview with such a specialist can last 2–3 hours, using a wide range of techniques, making it nearly impossible to prepare for. Additionally, the stress experienced by the deceiver gradually drains their energy and lowers their self-control, leading to leaks in body language, emotions, and words.