FAQ
Q: What is a polygraph?
A: Polygraph is a term which literally means "many writings." A polygraph examination is a psychophysiological test used to assess the veracity of an individual's statements on a given issue involving the collection of at least three areas of an individual's physiology: respiratory activity, which is recorded via the use of two pneumograph tubes attached to the thoracic and abdominal areas of the torso; cardiograph activity, which is recorded via the use of a standard cardiograph cuff; and electrodermal activity which is recorded via the use of either stainless steel plates attached to the finger tips or Ag/AgCl sensors attached to the palm of the hand.
Q: How accurate is the polygraph?
A: When administered by a properly trained examiner utilizing appropriate techniques and formats, peer-reviewed scientific research indicates that polygraph has accuracy rates ranging from a low of approximately 80% to a high of approximately 98%. While not perfect (no scientific test is), a properly constructed polygraph examination administered by a competent and experienced examiner has a high degree of accuracy. For more information on polygraph accuracy and reliability studies, go to www.polygraph.org
Q: I heard the polygraph can be beat. Is this true?
A: There is much publicly available information on how to "beat the box" or "how to pass your polygraph even if you're lying." This information falls into the category of what is known as "countermeasures." What the purveyors of this misinformation don't mention is the fact that all federally-trained and certified polygraph examiners receive extensive training on how to recognize countermeasures.
Q: Why isn't the polygraph acceptable in a court of law?
A: This is a commonly held misperception. In the federal circuit, admissibility of polygraph results is at the discretion of the trial judge under FRE 702 and the decision reached in DAUBERT v. DOW. Currently, 18 states do allow polygraph results into evidence as long it is stipulated to by both the prosecution and defense. For more information on legal issues relating to polygraph, go to www.polygraph.org
Q: How much does a polygraph cost?
A: The cost of a polygraph examination is dependent upon many factors to include the type of case involved, the training and experience level of the examiner, travel to the exam location, as well as equipment, licensing and insurance requirements. Due to these variables, the cost of a polygraph exam ranges from a low of approximately $500 to a high of approximately $1500 per exam.
Q: What qualifications should I look before retaining the services of a polygraph examiner?
A: Graduation from a polygraph school recognized and accredited by the American Polygraph Association, properly licensed (Maryland currently has no licensing requirement), properly insured, a minimum of 10 years experience in the field, membership in the American Polygraph Association and completion of a minimum of 40 hours of continuing polygraph education per annum.
"When you need an impartial seeker of The Truth"