This term is used to describe a diagnostic or a psychotherapeutic technique that uses drugs which puts the subject in a state of torpor which bring mental elements to the surface, which then can be exploited by the investigating agent. The drugs that are used are basically barbiturates. The term Narco-analysis was coined by Horseley. It reached mainstream investigating during the 1900s when Robert House used the drug ‘Scopolamine’ on two prisoners from a texas prison. Its therapeutic use was documented first by Dr. William Blackwenn in 1930. Others demonstrated the drug’s use in therapeutically obtaining vital information and proved respite to the patients.
Narco analysus uses drugs with the following active chemical substances
- The central nervous system is depressed and sedatives, hypnotics alter higher cognitive functions. The drugs that are used are scopolamine, temazeom, barbiturates, ethanol and seconal.
- Nowadays the drug of choice is sodium pentothal which is used for Narco-analysis. Scompolamine was one of the first drugs used in this procedure.
Narco-Analysis follows the following …show more content…
- The confessions and revelations are then well documented using video cameras and audio devices.
- A report is then generated by the forensic psychologist which is accompanied by these recordings.
- The Strength of these revelations are then further verified using brain mapping tests, profiling and other techniques.
Narco-Analysis is usually carried out in government holdings and facilities like hospitals or forensic labs. But we do require the consent of the subject or a court order to conduct this kind of nalysis. Therefore in Narco-analysis the drug affects the functioning of the brain and that’s the reason why the subject finds it difficult to lie or manipulate the answers. The revelations then are used to derive conclusions and reconstruct the crime.
Narco-analysis is gaining popularity and increasingly being used in India. Its has earned the support of many judiciaries and state governements. There are two main issues pertaining to narco analysis which are discussed in the following section. Reliability and where it should be injected into the legal system.