Polygraph in the modern world

What indicators does a lie detector register during a test?

The instrument records physiological and psychophysiological processes:

• • thoracic (upper) and diaphragmatic (lower) breathing;
• • blood pressure, heartbeat, blood flow to the vessels;
• • sweat secretion intensity;
• • tremor (motor activity, muscle contractions);
• • changes in voice.

It is practically impossible to alter the body’s natural reactions; however, history records isolated cases where individuals managed to outsmart the polygraph, such as Aldrich Ames, a double agent who remained undetected for 9 years.

Experts generally agree that while there may be some hope of deceiving the computer itself, it is much more difficult to deceive an experienced polygraph examiner, who interprets the collected data and monitors human reactions. Therefore, polygraph services should only be commissioned from certified specialists with a proven professional track record.

What is the purpose of polygraph testing?

In some large companies and law enforcement agencies, in order to minimize risk factors, both new and existing employees are strongly encouraged to undergo polygraph testing.

Screening new personnel makes it possible to identify:

• • the reliability of the data in the application form and biographical facts;
• • the real motives for a new employee’s hiring (for example, at the request of criminal individuals or competitors);
• • the presence of harmful habits and various types of addictions;
• • the presence of unpaid loans, financial obligations, and other debts;
• • facts of poor job performance, workplace conflicts, and disclosure of internal information at previous places of employment;
• • the presence of thefts and other misconduct that caused moral or material damage in a previous position;
• • and other facts important to the employer.

Circumstances of poor job performance, workplace conflicts, and disclosure of internal information at a previous place of employment;

• • the presence of circumstances that may lead to the blackmailing of a current employee;
• • the presence of connections with competitors;
• • the presence of connections with terrorist or criminal organizations;
• • in the case of unlawful actions: to determine whether such actions or similar incidents have occurred in the past, the motive behind the actions, and the individuals involved;
• • during an internal investigation: to clarify the circumstances of what happened, identify the individuals involved, determine the motive and main purpose, locate stolen property, etc.

In some cases, polygraph testing is also strongly requested for close or domestic staff (for example, a nanny for a child or a housekeeper living with the employers).

In personal disputes, such as when it is necessary to determine whether infidelity has occurred, a lie detector can sometimes be the only way to bring a final resolution to the conflict.

All data obtained during the examination is generally intended for internal use, as there is no law in Ukraine regulating the use of this instrument. The results cannot be used as primary evidence in court, but they may be added to a case as supporting material.

How to pass a polygraph

The examinee is asked questions in such a way that they can only be answered with “Yes” or “No”. All polygraph examiner questions can be divided into three groups:

• • neutral questions used to calibrate the sensors for a specific person;
• • control questions designed to trigger strong emotional responses;
• • relevant questions that indicate the falsehood or truthfulness of the information obtained.

According to current legislation, polygraph services are provided only on a voluntary basis, and it is mandatory to obtain the examinee’s written consent.

The procedure may last from 1.5 to 3 hours. It is recommended to get a good night’s sleep beforehand and arrive for the test well-rested. A general recommendation is to answer questions calmly and honestly, and try to remain as relaxed as possible.

There are contraindications for the examination, including nervous tension, physical exhaustion (for example, an sleepless night before the test), mental disorders, pregnancy, asthma, a history of heart attack or stroke, hangover, and other factors. If there is even a minor illness accompanied by coughing or a runny nose, the examiner conducting the test must be informed. It is also necessary to notify the polygraph examiner before the test if you have taken any medication or are feeling unwell.

If you have any questions about polygraph services, please call us using one of the contact numbers, and we will provide answers as honestly and objectively as a lie detector.