Q: What is a polygraph? 

The polygraph is an instrument that records internal physiological changes. It records respiratory activity, electro dermal activity and cardio (blood volume) activity. A person will have physiological changes that occur in their body when they are not truthful that are recorded by the polygraph instrument.

Q: How long does a polygraph examination take? 

Per APA guidelines, the required minimum length of a polygraph examination is 90 minutes in duration, however each examination depends on many things, including the complexity of the issue and the level of the examinee's cooperation.  A person scheduled for an exam should plan on at least two hours.

Q: Can everyone be tested? 

Most people are suitable candidates for an examination. Physical factors that may prevent an examination include pregnancy, recent major surgery, paralysis, severe colds and respiratory problems. Juvenile subjects under the age of 14 are often difficult to examine due to a lack of maturity. On occasion, psychological problems may prevent an examination.

Q: What is the best way to prepare for a polygraph examination?

A person should get an adequate amount of sleep prior to the examination, use prescribed medication as directed and do not use alcohol or illegal drugs within 24 hours of the scheduled examination.  If you have any questions, contact the examiner.

Q: How accurate is a polygraph?

The polygraph has been proven to be up to 95% accurate for a single issue examination. Results from a single issue polygraph examination will be reported as Deception Indicated (DI), No Deception Indicated (NDI) or Inconclusive/No Opinion (INC or NO).  Results from a multiple issue polygraph examination will be reported as Significant Response (SR), No Significant Response (NSR) or Inconclusive/No Opinion (INC or NO).  While most cases will be determined as truthful or deceptive following the examination, occasionally an examination will be Inconclusive. This means no opinion is rendered as to deception or truth.

Q: Will nerves affect the outcome? 

All examinees have some type of general nervous tension and may feel guilty about taking a polygraph exam. During the pretest phase, the examiner will review all elements of the examination and review the test questions prior to administering the examination. By this time, the innocent examinee will be a bit more relaxed; nervousness will not cause the innocent examinee to be shown deceptive. As long as you tell the truth to all of the test questions, then you may just be nervous during the entire test. However, if you tell a lie to any of the test questions, you may be nervous but have now told a lie causing physiological changes to occur.

Q: Can you "beat" the polygraph test? 

Studies show there is nothing a person can deliberately and consciously do to cause a diagnostic error if the examiner is qualified and follows proper procedures. However, if a truthful examinee attempts to alter the data by using deliberate distortions, the examinee may be determined as engaging in deceptive behavior by the examiner. A well trained, competent examiner will be able to differentiate between truth and deception.

Q. Will I know what the questions are prior to the test? 

Yes. There are no surprises on a polygraph. Every question will be reviewed prior to the examination and the examinee is given the opportunity to ensure that he understands and is comfortable with all test questions. 

Q. Can anyone test sex offenses? 

The American Polygraph Association (APA) requires examiners who conduct Post-Conviction Sex Offender Testing (PCSOT) to be certified. If you have been convicted or are under investigation for a sex crime, Christian is a PCSOT certified examiner and has completed the requirements for conducting this type of exam.

Q. Will I know the results of my Polygraph test? 

Yes, in most cases. After the examination, the examinee will usually be given a verbal confirmation of the outcome. A confidential written report will follow if requested.

Q. What should I look for in an examiner? 

Make sure the examiner is licensed and insured. Also, make sure they belong to professional organizations and attend continuing education. If you are looking for an examiner to test on a sexual issue, make sure they are PCSOT certified by the APA. Kieso Polygraph Services is licensed, bonded and insured. Christian is a member of several professional polygraph organizations and attends continuing education.