FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Polygraph Testing

Polygraph examinations serve a wide range of purposes across legal, personal, and professional contexts. At its core, the polygraph is a truth verification tool that helps to uncover facts and clarify uncertainties in situations where honesty is crucial.

In the legal field, polygraphs are often used during criminal investigations to verify a suspect’s statements or to exonerate individuals wrongfully accused of a crime. Defense attorneys may use polygraph results to support their client’s claims of innocence, while prosecutors may use them as part of their investigative process. In civil cases, polygraphs can help resolve disputes, verify testimonies, or support claims in situations like insurance fraud investigations.

On a personal level, polygraph tests are frequently used to address issues of trust within relationships. Infidelity tests, for example, can help couples determine the truth about suspected affairs, providing clarity and aiding in relationship counseling. In therapeutic settings, polygraph exams can be part of treatment programs for issues like sex addiction or substance abuse, helping therapists verify a client’s compliance and progress.

In the professional world, polygraph tests are often required for sensitive positions involving national security, law enforcement, or other roles where integrity is paramount. Pre-employment screenings help employers ensure candidates meet the ethical and security standards required for specific roles.

The use of polygraph testing in pre-employment screenings is regulated by the Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) of 1988. This federal law generally prohibits most private employers from using lie detector tests for pre-employment screening or during the course of employment. However, there are specific exemptions where polygraph testing is legally permitted.

Government agencies at the local, state, and federal levels are exempt from EPPA restrictions and may require polygraph tests for certain positions, particularly those involving law enforcement, public safety, and national security. For example, police departments, fire departments, and correctional institutions frequently use polygraph exams during their hiring processes to ensure candidates possess the integrity and honesty required for these critical roles.

Additionally, companies involved in sensitive industries such as pharmaceuticals, nuclear energy, and security services may also require pre-employment polygraph testing. This is especially true for roles where employees have access to controlled substances, classified information, or other high-security materials.

Employers who fall under these exemptions must adhere to specific guidelines when administering polygraph tests, ensuring that the process is fair, transparent, and respectful of the candidate’s rights. The use of polygraph testing in these contexts helps employers make informed hiring decisions and maintain high standards of security and integrity.

Polygraph testing is a voluntary process that can be administered to almost anyone who understands the difference between right and wrong and can comprehend the questions being asked. While there are no strict age restrictions, minors typically require parental or guardian consent before undergoing a polygraph examination.

The suitability of an individual for polygraph testing also depends on their physical and mental health. Certain medical conditions, such as heart problems or severe anxiety disorders, may affect the accuracy of the test results. Therefore, a pre-test interview often includes questions about the examinee’s health history to ensure that the polygraph test is appropriate.

In legal contexts, both suspects and witnesses may undergo polygraph testing to verify statements or clarify facts in an investigation. In personal cases, individuals involved in disputes, relationship issues, or family matters may choose to take a polygraph test to establish the truth and resolve conflicts.

Ultimately, participation in a polygraph examination is voluntary, and examinees must provide informed consent before the test can proceed. The examiner ensures that each individual fully understands the process and their rights before beginning the examination.

When choosing a polygraph examiner, it is essential to ask the right questions to ensure you are working with a qualified and reputable professional. Key questions to consider include:

• Are you APA certified? Certification from the American Polygraph Association ensures that the examiner has completed accredited training and adheres to industry standards.
• How much experience do you have? Experience plays a critical role in the accuracy and reliability of polygraph results. An examiner with years of hands-on experience is more likely to provide accurate assessments.
• What are your testing procedures and protocols? Understanding the examiner’s approach to testing can help you feel more comfortable with the process. Ask about the pre-test interview, the types of questions used, and how results are analyzed.

When trained professionals use scientifically validated techniques, polygraph tests are highly accurate. The accuracy rate of a properly administered polygraph examination is estimated to be between 85% and 95%. Factors such as the examiner’s experience, the examinee’s suitability, and the clarity of the questions all contribute to the reliability of the test results.

Proper preparation for a polygraph exam can help ensure the accuracy of the results. Examinees should:

• Get a good night’s sleep before the test.

• Avoid alcohol, drugs, or excessive caffeine prior to the examination.

• Be honest and forthcoming during the pre-test interview.

• Follow any specific instructions provided by the examiner to ensure the best possible results.

If an individual is found to be deceptive on a polygraph test, the examiner will discuss the findings with them. The individual may be given an opportunity to explain their responses. In legal or employment settings, the results may be used to guide further investigations or decision-making processes.

There is widespread belief that polygraph tests can be manipulated, but in reality, trained examiners can detect most attempts at deception. Countermeasures such as controlled breathing, muscle contractions, or mental distractions are often ineffective and can be identified through data analysis. Attempting to cheat a polygraph test may also lead to inconclusive results, which can raise additional concerns about the examinee’s truthfulness.

Polygraph test results can be admissible in some federal circuits and states. The United States Supreme Court has yet to rule on the issue of polygraph admissibility so it has been up to individual jurisdictions to allow polygraph results. In the majority of cases, pending polygraph results were stipulated to by opposing attorneys.

General nervous tension is to be expected during the polygraph procedure. Competent examiners account for the enhanced physiological parameters. An examinee’s general nervous tension level is a relative constant throughout the procedure. We all have the capability to respond over and above that tension level. Nervousness will not affect accuracy.

Every competent certified examiner should review the test questions in detail with the prospective examinee prior to conducting the examination. This will serve to reduce the examinee’s nervousness and will ensure complete understanding of the questions to be asked.

Honest people have no reason to attempt to beat the polygraph; this concept is a myth. Media hype has planted the idea that polygraphs can be beaten and unfortunately, some people will try to do just that. An experienced examiner can identify attempts by the examinee to distort the test by observing the physiological reactions being collected.

Again, the polygraph is used to verify truth. However, regarding fidelity issues, it is best if involved parties seek some type of counseling before the test. If you are receiving counseling, fidelity test requests can be initiated by the counselor or attending professional.