Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone beat the test?
People don't beat a polygraph test they beat the examiner conducting the test. This is why it is imperative to ensure that the examiner conducting the test is certified and qualified.
A polygraph is simply an instrument that records changes in autonomic reactivity when confronting a given stimulus (question). If a person engages in behaviours that are designed to distort the polygraph tracings then it is the job of a competent and qualified examiner to identify and determine when this is occurring.
In most cases it is easy for a qualified examiner to determine when an examinee is attempting to influence the outcome of the exam. Although some parameters can be consciously controlled these are usually easily detected.
Typically truthful examinees are cooperative and follow instructions whereas deceptive examinees will attempt to engage in certain behaviours in an effort to distort the tracings. When such behaviours are identified three verbal warnings are given. If this behaviour continues the test is stopped and a Purposeful Non Cooperation (PNC) result is returned.