| Q: What is a polygraph? |
| The polygraph is an instrument that records internal physiological
changes. It records respiratory activity, electro dermal activity
and cardio (blood volume) activity. When an individual lies the fight/flight
syndrome kicks in and physiological changes occur. |
| Q: How long does a polygraph examination take? |
| The length of an examination depends on many things, including the
complexity of the issue and the level of the examinee cooperation.
Those scheduled for an exam should plan on at least two hours. |
| Q: Can everyone be tested? |
| Most people are suitable candidates for examination. Physical factors
that may prevent examination include pregnancy (over 100 days), recent
major surgery, paralysis, severe colds and respiratory problems. Juvenile
subjects under the age of 14 are often difficult to examine due to
a lack of maturity. On occasion, psychological problems may prevent
examination. |
| Q: Should I take medication before the examination? |
| Any prescribed medication taken on a regular scheduled basis should
be taken. If you have any questions, contact the examiner. |
| Q: How accurate is a polygraph? |
| The polygraph has been proven to be up to 98% accurate. Results
from a polygraph will be Deception Indicated (DI), No Deception Indicated
(NDI) or Inconclusive/no opinion (INC or NO). While most cases will
be determined during the polygraph, sometimes an examination will
be inconclusive. This means no opinion is rendered as to deception
or truth. |
| Q: Will nerves affect the outcome? |
| All examinees have some type of general nervous tension and may
feel guilty about taking a polygraph exam. During the pretest phase,
the examiner will review all elements of the examination and review
the test questions prior to administering the examination. By this
time, the innocent examinee will be a bit more relaxed; nervousness
will not cause the innocent examinee to be shown deceptive. |
| Q: Can you "beat" the polygraph test? |
| Studies show there is nothing a person can deliberately and consciously
do to cause a diagnostic error if the examiner is qualified and follows
proper procedures. |
| Q. Will I know what the questions are prior to the test? |
| Yes. There are no surprises on a polygraph. Every question will
be reviewed prior to you being attached to the equipment. |
| Q. Can anyone test sex offenses? |
| The American Polygraph Association (APA) requires examiners who
conduct Post-Conviction Sex Offender Testing (PCSOT) to be certified.
If you have been convicted or are under investigation for a sex crime,
you should choose a PSCOT certified examiner who has additional training
for this type of exam. |
| Q. Will I know the results of my Polygraph test? |
| Yes, in most cases. After the examination, the examinee will usually
be given a verbal confirmation of the outcome. A written report will
follow if requested. |
| Q. What should I look for in an examiner? |
| Assure they are licensed and insured. Also, assure they belong to
professional organizations and attend continuing education. If you
are looking for an examiner to test on a sexual issue, assure they
are PSCOT certified by the APA. |
