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FAQ

About the Test

What is a Polygraph Examination?

A polygraph test, often referred to as a lie detector test, measures physiological responses from the body to determine truthfulness. The test tracks changes in breathing, blood pressure, and sweat gland activity to detect signs of deception. During the exam, the examiner will review all questions with the examinee beforehand. The polygraph records these physiological changes, which can indicate whether someone is being truthful or deceptive.

How Accurate is a Polygraph?

Polygraph tests are highly accurate, with studies showing accuracy rates between 87% and 95% when conducted by a qualified examiner. Research indicates that polygraphs are more reliable than many other forensic methods, making them a valuable tool for determining truthfulness.

What is Measured by a Polygraph?

A polygraph measures physiological changes such as blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, and sweat gland activity. These indicators can show significant changes when a person is being deceptive.

Are There Errors in a Polygraph Examination?

While polygraph tests are highly accurate, errors can occur. These may result from improper preparation or misinterpretation of data. Errors are categorized as false positives (truthful individuals marked as deceptive) or false negatives (deceptive individuals marked as truthful). Examiners use various procedures to minimize the risk of such errors.

Who Gets the Results?

The results are provided to the examinee and any individuals or organizations designated in writing by the examinee. This ensures confidentiality and privacy.

How Much Does it Cost?

Fidelity Polygraph Pricing: $400 Other Polygraph Tests: Call examiner for pricing. *The price may be more if examiner has to travel from the Shreveport-Bossier area.

About Your Appointment

How Should I Prepare for the Exam?
  • No alcohol consumption, illegal or recreational drugs 24 hours before the test.
  • Take prescription medication as prescribed...nothing more or less.
  • Try to get at least 6 hours of sleep the night before the test.
  • Dress in comfortable attire, avoiding bulky clothing that might interfere with the sensors.
  • Prepare a relatively quiet place where the exam is to be conducted, free from any loud noises or distractions.
  • If you feel unwell on the day of your appointment, please reschedule, as the exam won't be administered if you are sick.
What Does the Exam Involve?

Polygraph exams typically last between two to three hours, with the actual time spent connected to the sensors being around twenty minutes. Nervousness is natural and does not affect the outcome. The test focuses on physiological responses to specific questions, not general nervousness. You will have sensors attached to various parts of your body, which record data without causing any discomfort.

What Kind of Questions Can Be Asked?

Questions in the polygraph should relate to past events. They must be clear and objective, avoiding topics like religion or politics unless relevant to the investigation.

How Many Questions Can Be Asked?

Typically, a polygraph test covers four relevant questions. Additional questions may require a separate test. Increasing the number of questions can reduce the reliability of the results.

What Does the Test Consist Of?

The test includes a pre-test interview, where the examiner explains the process and reviews the questions. The examinee is then connected to the polygraph instrument, and the questions are asked multiple times. The examiner analyzes the data to determine truthfulness and provides the results to the client.

How Long Does the Test Take?

The average polygraph test lasts between two to three hours. This includes a detailed pre-test interview to review questions and ensure the examinee's suitability.

Other

Who Uses Polygraph Examinations?

Polygraph tests are used in various sectors, including:

Private Sector: Individuals, therapists, and employers for issues like infidelity, drug use, and theft.

Legal Community: Attorneys and courts for pre-trial and post-conviction assessments.

Law Enforcement and Government: Agencies like the FBI, CIA, and military for investigations and national security.

Are Polygraph Examinations Admissible in Court?

Polygraph results are not universally admissible in court. Some jurisdictions allow them, while others do not. Generally, polygraph results can be admissible if both parties agree beforehand. They are more commonly used in civil cases than in criminal trials. Answer 2: Admissibility varies by jurisdiction. Some courts allow it under specific conditions, while others do not. Polygraph results are often used in pre-trial investigations rather than during the trial itself.

Can Someone Under 18 Take a Polygraph?

Yes, but written consent from a parent or guardian is required. Most examiners do not test individuals under 14 years of age unless there are exceptional circumstances.

Can Someone Beat the Polygraph?

While some attempts to manipulate the test exist, such as using drugs or controlling breathing, these are generally detectable by experienced examiners. The polygraph is designed to be highly accurate and difficult to deceive.

Can an Employer Require an Employee to Take the Test?

Under certain conditions, yes. The Employee Polygraph Protection Act of 1988 outlines specific criteria and procedures for employers to follow. The test must be voluntary, and the employee must be informed of their rights.

Where are You Located?

Our examiner is located in Shreveport, Louisiana, but we conduct polygraph examinations in surrounding parishes and East Texas. Appointments are required.

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