What is a Polygraph?
A polygraph is a scientific, diagnostic tool used to determine if a person is telling the truth (psychophysiological detection of deception). The term "polygraph" literally means "many writings." The name refers to the simultaneous recording of selected physiological activities. Polygraph examiners may use conventional instruments, sometimes called analog instruments, or computerized polygraph instruments. Most polygraph examiners in the United States now use computerized polygraph instruments. According to the dictionary, a polygraph is a measuring device that permanently records various physiological changes in the test subject's body in response to certain psychological stimuli. These stimuli are brought about by asking questions, structured and phrased in a specific way, and by maintaining a certain environmental and emotional climate during the examination.
Who is a Polygraph Examiner?
A person who has graduated from an American Polygraph Association (APA) approved basic polygraph examiner course of instruction and is properly licensed as required by law.
How does a Polygraph work?
The polygraph instrument simultaneously monitors and records changes in the subject’s chest and abdominal area, sweat gland activity, blood pressure, and body movement. These physiological changes can occur in your central nervous system when asked certain questions. The data collected by the polygraph instrument is then analyzed by our Certified Polygraph Examiners to arrive at an expert opinion as to the probability of the subject’s truthfulness or deception regarding the relevant question(s) asked during the polygraph examination.
Does a polygraph detect lies?
No, a polygraph records physiological responses to a series of questions presented to an individual by a qualified polygraph examiner using a validated testing format. The examiner can then interpret the responses on the charts and render a diagnostic opinion about the veracity of the subject being tested.
Can an employer use a polygraph to test an employee suspected of causing an economic loss?
Yes, if the employer has reasonable suspicion. The employer must articulate the reasonable suspicion and reduce it to writing; access alone does not constitute reasonable suspicion. Additional information is available in the Employee Polygraph Protection Act of 1988 (EPPA).
How accurate is a polygraph?
Research reveals that polygraph exams have a confidence interval of up to 94% (Gougler, et al., 2011). However, we suggest you do your own research on validity and reliability. For additional information on polygraph, visit the American Polygraph Association (APA) website and the American Association of Police Polygraphists (AAPP) website.
How many questions may be asked?
The number of questions depends on the format the examiner uses. The examiner may ask no more than 4 relevant questions per exam series.
Will I know what questions are on the test?
Yes, all questions are reviewed with the examinee before any polygraph testing.
Can I be forced to take a polygraph exam?
No, polygraph exams are always voluntary.
Can anyone other than the examinee and examiner be in the room during the test?
No, only the examinee and examiner are allowed in the room during the exam.
How long does a polygraph exam take?
A polygraph exam has three phases: the pretest, the chart collection phase, and the post-test. Examinations usually take approximately 90-120 minutes.
Should I stop taking my prescribed medication(s) before the exam?
No, we will discuss all medications with the examinee.
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