FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

WHAT IS A POLYGRAPH & HOW IT WORKS?

A polygraph is a scientific instrument used to detect deception. It simultaneously and continuously measures breathing patterns, relative changes in blood volume and Electro Dermal Activity (Changes in sweat).

The term "polygraph" literally means "many writings." The name refers to the manner in which selected physiological activities are simultaneously recorded.

 

WHAT PROCEDURES ARE FOLLOWED DURING A POLYGRAPH?

• It is important to understand what a polygraph examination entails. A polygraph instrument will collect physiological data from at least three systems in the human body. Convoluted rubber tubes that are placed over the examinee's chest and abdominal area will record respiratory activity. Two small metal plates, attached to the fingers, will record sweat gland activity, and a blood pressure cuff, or similar device will record cardiovascular activity.
  
• Up to date polygraph examiners will use a computerized polygraph instrument.
  
• A typical polygraph examination will include the following 3 procedures/periods referred to as a pre-test, a chart collection phase and a test data analysis phase.
  
• In the pre-test, the polygraph examiner will complete required paperwork and talk with the examinee about the test. During this period, the examiner will explain the instrumentation that is to be used and also discuss the questions that will be asked and familiarize the examinee with the testing procedure.
  
• During this phase of the test the examiner will also establish whether or not the examinee is suitable to undergo a polygraph examination i.e. Medical and mental history.
  
• During the chart collection phase, the examiner will administer and collect a number of polygraph charts. Following this, the examiner will analyse the charts and render an opinion as to the truthfulness of the person taking the test.
  
• The examiner, when appropriate, will offer the examinee an opportunity to explain physiological responses in relation to one or more questions asked during the test.
  

 

Voice Stress Analysis

It is important to note that a polygraph does not include the analysis of physiology associated with the voice. Instruments that claim to record voice stress (Computerized Voice-Stress Analysis, Layered Voice-Stress Analysis and / or Voice-Stress Analysis by any other name)are not polygraphs and have not been shown to have scientific support.

At Moment of Truth Forensic Polygraph Services we do not practice nor endorse the use of Voice Stress Analysis.

Polygraph testing should not be confused with Voice Stress Analysis. Numerous  independent studies have shown that it is just about as accurate as flipping a coin and its results are also not accepted at CCMA.

Voice Stress creator exposed:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rr3E_2KTxI0

The following link can also be opened to verify legislation regarding Voice Stress Analysis http://www.voicestress.org/

 

HOW ACCURATE ARE THE POLYGRAPH RESULTS?

The American Polygraph Association says the polygraph is 85% to 95% Accurate, there are studies on record that suggest polygraph is even more accurate. Each polygraph tests’ accuracy will be determined by the “P” value (propebality).

 

CAN A PERSON BE FORCED TO TAKE A POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION?

Unless stipulated in a contract, no person can be forced to undergo a polygraph examination. However, it must be kept in mind that the polygraph is a quick and effective tool to assist in any investigation and could be the quickest and most effective way of excluding an innocent person from the continuous investigation.

 

CAN NERVOUSNESS AFFECT THE EXAMINATION RESLULTS?

The polygraph technique allows for a person’s general nervous tension. Most people will be nervous before and during a polygraph examination. This however only affects the level from which recordings are made and does not affect the result of the examination. In other words the level of nervousness will not have any negative affect on the test.

 

HOW CAN THE POLYGRAPH HELP YOUR BUSINESS?

A polygraph test can also assist in helping to provide information regarding the integrity of worker/s quickly and accurately.  Therefore it can be of great value in the appointment of personnel and also to establish the culpability in cases of employee theft or fraud. It is therefore suggested that the polygraph is an invaluable aid in any personnel integrity maintenance program.

 

HOW CONFIDENTIAL IS A POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION?

Every conscious effort is made to ensure that the privacy of the examinee and the client's information is kept confidential. All files are restricted to those immediately involved in the procedure. The information will only be disclosed to those who (and others as may be required by due process of law) are entitled to the facts concerning the results.

 

HOW DO YOU SELECT A POLYGRAPH EXAMINER?

When choosing an examiner, it is very important to ensure that the individual is fully qualified from an accredited polygraph school and is a registered member of a South African Polygraph Federation or Association. Only reputable polygraph companies with a proven track record and proper references should be considered.

 

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.

 

HOW MANY QUESTIONS MAY BE ASKED?

Question numbers are determined by the format being utilized by the examiner.

 

WILL I KNOW WHAT QUESTIONS ARE TO BE ASKED DURING THE EXAMINATION?

Yes, all questions are reviewed with the examinee prior to any polygraph testing.

 

CAN I BE FORCED TO TAKE A POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION?

No, polygraph exams are always voluntary.

 

SHOULD I STOP TAKING MY MEDICATION BEFORE THE EXAMINATION?

No.

CAN I BE TESTED IF I AM PREGNANT?

Yes, unless the pregnancy is problematic, then you will have to receive a medical release from a registered medical practitioner.