What is a Polygraph?
Polygraph is a scientific, diagnostic tool used to determine if a person is telling the truth (psycho-physiological detection of deception). The term "polygraph" literally means "many writings." The name refers to the manner in which selected physiological activities are simultaneously recorded. Polygraph examiners may use conventional instruments, sometimes referred to as analog instruments, or computerized polygraph instruments. Most polygraph examiners in the United States now use computerized polygraph instruments. According to the dictionary the polygraph is a measuring device, which makes a permanent recording of various physiological changes taking place within the body of the test subject as a result of 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 is then able to decipher the chart polygrams and render a diagnostic opinion as to 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 be able to articulate the reasonable suspicion, and reduce it to writing; access alone does not constitute reasonable suspicion. Additional information can be found in the Employee Polygraph Protection Act of 1988 (EPPA).
How accurate is a polygraph?
Research reveals that polygraph exams have a confidence interval up to 94% (Gougler, et al., 2011). However, we suggest doing your own research on the validity and reliability. For additional information on polygraph, visit the American Polygraph Association (APA) website and American Association of Police Polygraphists (AAPP) website.
How many questions may be asked?
Question numbers are determined by the format being utilized by the examiner. No more than 4 relevant questions can be asked per exam.
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 is a three-phase test: the pretest, chart collection phase, and the post-test. Examinations usually take approximately 90-120 minutes.
Should I stop taking my medication before the exam?
No, all medications will be discussed with the examinee.
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