Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Our Instrumentation

We utilize state of the art computerized polygraph instrumentation manufactured by Axciton Computerized Polygraph Systems Company, in Houston, TX and Lafayette Instrument in Lafayette, IN.

General Information About Polygraph

The term “lie detector” is a very popular, but misleading, name for the polygraph examination. In Greek, the word polygraph means “many writings.” The polygraph instrument was so named because it makes various simultaneous recordings of physiological changes that occur in a person’s body. In actuality, the polygraph instrument should be called a “truth verifier.” Statistics show that in the vast majority of instances, the polygraph instrument verifies the truthfulness of your statements.

There are many misconceptions about a polygraph examination. For example, it is widely assumed that the polygraph examination is wrapped in secrecy and that its success depends on keeping it secret. Nothing could be further from the truth! Remember, questions are encouraged. The examination you are about to take will be explained in detail by a trained professional polygraph examiner.

The examiner will explain how the polygraph instrument operates, how it records your body’s physiological responses when you lie and tell the truth, and every question to be asked of you in the polygraph examination will be discussed with you word for word.

Dos and Don'ts

Do:

  • Get enough sleep
  • Make sure you aren’t hungry, but avoid anything that might upset your stomach
  • Take all medications as prescribed, with the exception of medical marijuana

Don’t:

  • Do an intense workout or physical exertion prior to your exam
  • Consume marijuana for at least 12 hours prior to your exam
  • Drink excessive caffeine (light or moderate consumption is acceptable if that is your norm)
  • Worry about being nervous!

FAQs

WHAT DOES A POLYGRAPH CONSIST OF?
A Polygraph Examination (lie detector test) consists of three separate and distinct phases: The “Pre-Test” interview, the “In-Test” phase and the “Post-Test” interview.

PRE-TEST INTERVIEW During the pre-test interview, the polygraphist (polygraph examiner) will explain your legal rights and the voluntary nature of the examination. Also discussed is your medical, physical, and psychological background as well as your knowledge of the investigation and an explanation on how the instrument works.

IN-TEST PHASE At this point the polygraphist will review all the pertinent test questions with you and then conduct a “Acquaintance Test” to help them assess your suitability for additional tests. Several tests will then be conducted which will include the reviewed questions. There will be no surprise questions on any tests. The Polygraph Examiner will then analyze the results of each test to arrive at an opinion.

POST-TEST INTERVIEW During the post-test interview, the polygraphist will talk to you about any lingering thoughts or questions you might have.

WHAT IF I AM TELLING THE TRUTH, BUT I AM NERVOUS ABOUT TAKING THE EXAMINATION?
It is normal for an innocent person to be nervous; the polygraph examiner is aware of this. Nervousness does not prevent them from distinguishing between the truth and deception.
I HAVE HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE; WON’T THAT LOOK AS THOUGH I’M LYING?
No, while blood volume is one of the recordings, high blood pressure does not invalidate the results of the test. If you are currently under a doctor’s care for a medical condition, be sure to tell your examiner.
DOES THE TEST HURT? CAN I GET AN ELECTRICAL SHOCK?

No, there is slight pressure from the cardio cuff but the test does not hurt. Also, there is no possibility of you getting an electrical shock.
It is most important that during the examination you be as comfortable as possible. The only discomfort experienced may be a slight pressure on the arm from the blood pressure cuff.

SUPPOSE THE INSTRUMENT SAYS I AM LYING WHEN I AM NOT?
The polygraph simply records certain bodily reactions to the questions you are being asked. It is up to your polygraph examiner to interpret the information and provide an educated opinion as to the data’s meaning.
WHAT IF THE INSTRUMENT MALFUNCTIONS?
When anything occurs that could affect a test, it would be obvious to the polygraph examiner and they would stop the examination. The polygraph examiner routinely checks all their instruments to verify that they are in proper functioning order.
CAN I BE FORCED TO TAKE THE EXAMINATION?
No. The Polygraph Examination is voluntary. Your polygraph examiner requires the complete cooperation of the individual throughout the test. As a result, it must be voluntary. If, for any reason, you don’t wish to take the examination, you may decline.
HOW LONG DOES THE EXAMINATION TAKE?
Most examinations require about two hours. Some may be longer or shorter, depending upon the issues involved.
DOES THE EXAMINATION MEAN THAT THE POLYGRAPH IS INFALLIBLE?

No. Most examinations readily reveal to the polygraph examiner whether or not the person is truthful. Possible outcomes of any polygraph examinations are: Truthful, Deceptive or Inconclusive. “Inconclusive” means the examiner is unable to render an opinion of either Truthful or Deceptive in that particular case. The polygraph examiner may request a voluntary re-examination if the results are inconclusive.