Is lie detection software accurate? A recent study was conducted in order to test the accuracy of a commonly used method of lie detection. The researchers are specifically interested in how lie detectors perform when an individual is stressed. A sample of 48 participants were gathered and attached to the lie detection device. They were asked to read deceptive material out loud while receiving an electric shock (to add stress). The lie detector failed to report deception in 17 of the 48 participants.
(a) What is the sample in this study? What is the population of interest? What does the variable measure?
(b) What proportion of time does the lie detector fail to report deception?
(c) If you were a prosecutor, would you recommend this lie detector to reveal deception?