Frequently Asked Questions:
Will I feel the attached sensors?
Yes, the sensors are attached, and the examiner will make every effort to ensure that you remain comfortable throughout the exam. You must inform the examiner should you feel any discomfort.
What should I do if I don’t understand something?
Never be worried about asking any question even if it appears absurd or stupid. The examiner has extensive knowledge and experience and can answer you with dignity. It is absolutely vital that you fully understand the process and the questions.
How long with the exam take?
The average exam length is between two to three hours. Everyone’s background is different and the testing refers to those experiences. Put aside plenty of time in your schedule to account for this period.
How accurate are polygraph examinations?
Quoting the American Polygraph Association:
“The executive summary reports that 38 studies satisfied the qualitative and quantitative requirements for inclusion in the meta-analysis. These studies involved 32 different samples, and described the results of 45 different experiments and surveys. They included 295 scorers who provided 11,737 scored results of 3,723 examinations, including 6,109 scores of 2,015 confirmed deceptive examinations, 5,628 scores of 1,708 confirmed truthful exams. Some of the cases were scored by multiple scorers and using multiple scoring methods. The data showed that techniques intended for event-specific (single issue) diagnostic testing produced an aggregated decision accuracy of 89% (confidence interval of 83% – 95%), with an estimated inconclusive rate of 11%. Polygraph techniques in which multiple issues were encompassed by the relevant questions produced an aggregated decision accuracy of 85% (confidence interval 77% – 93%) with an inconclusive rate of 13%. The combination of all validated PDD techniques, excluding outlier results, produced a decision accuracy of 87% (confidence interval 80% – 94%) with an inconclusive rate of 13%. These findings were consistent with those of the National Research Council’s (2003) conclusions regarding polygraph accuracy, and provide additional support for the validity of polygraph testing when conducted in accordance with APA Standards of Practice”.