A polygraph lie detector test is used in many industries, such as law, business, and government. It can also be used to diagnose certain disorders such as autism and sexual addiction. Instead of a physical examination or conducting an interview, a polygraph test is done by having the person take several psychological tests
This article will go through each title in detail. Overall this article will discuss what it entails for someone to receive a polygraph test and how it works compared to other forms of testing.
What is a polygraph lie detector test?
A polygraph lie detector test is a psychological test to determine if the person is telling the truth. The test can be administered in three different ways. The first way it can be conducted is a traditional or evidential polygraph test. This type of test uses several monitors to track changes in the body, specifically with the heart and breathing rates of the person that receives the test. The second type of testing used during a polygraph exam is called control questions, which doesn’t use all of the monitors present in an evidential test. The third and final test is the Quick Reaction Test (QRT). This test doesn’t use any monitors on the subject.
How does a polygraph work?
A polygraph measures changes in several involuntary body responses. These involuntary body responses are used to determine if the person telling the truth. Research shows that people who lie will give several physiological responses when responding to a question. A liar will either have an increased heart rate, blood pressure, and sweating or say specific words and phrases very quickly compared to someone who is telling the truth.
How to detect a lie with a polygraph test?
To detect a lie with the polygraph, you must be aware of the different physiological responses that it gives. These are sometimes called ‘tells’ or ‘non-verbal reactions’. This means that you need to know what these reactions mean in order to be able to spot them from someone lying.
- Questioning: Using hidden cameras and audio recording, ask the person questions about the topic being tested for. If there are no signs in their behavior, then they will not have any suspicious changes.
- Calibration: During the calibration, you will ask questions to determine the levels of response in their answer. There should be no changes. If they do have a change, then that is a sign of lying.
- Statement Analysis: After the calibration, the person will give a statement on the topic that they are being questioned about and will answer all questions about it. They should not show any signs of lying or telling fibs.
- Control Questions: These questions used throughout the test to make sure that your results are not affected by other factors outside of lying and telling fibs.
Conclusion
The polygraph works by measuring fluctuations in the body, therefore it is good to take as many measures of the subject as you can. To get the best results you will want to ask them questions and ensure they are telling the truth. The best tactic would be to ask them several questions and compare their answers with the facts.