CIFP answers some of the most common questions; however, if you have further questions regarding our or services, please contact us by calling
• How Does the Polygraph Work?
• How Accurate is the Polygraph?
• Who Uses Polygraph Examinations?
• Steps Associated with the Polygraph Test
• Setting of the Test
• How to Schedule Polygraph Test or Lie Detector Test?
Polygraph comes from the Greek words: Poly (many) and Grafos (writings); therefore, it means "many writings." The name refers to the manner in which selected physiological activities are simultaneously recorded using conventional instruments, also known as analog instruments and computerized polygraph instruments. We Use the latest technology:
The polygraph instrument is a scientific instrument, which collects physiological data from at least three systems in the human body, for example: two convoluted rubber tubes that are placed over the examinee's chest and abdominal area will record pneumonal or respiratory activities. Two small metal plates, attached to the ring and index fingers or disposables electrodes that can be attached to fingers or the hand palm, which will record sudoriferous or sweat gland activity and a blood pressure cuff placed around the upper arm will record cardiovascular activity (blood volume and pulse rate). In addition, the examiner uses a sensor activity pad for the purpose of monitoring body movements.
All people have an emergency, or survival system, commonly known as the “fight or flight” system. Any time an individual perceives danger, this system is automatically activated, causing sudden changes to take place within the body to better prepare the person to meet the threat. Before the polygraph examination, the examiner will and should review all the questions to be asked with the examinee.
The examinee will know exactly what he/she is going to be asked during the test. If, during the test, the examinee is asked a question he/she has decided to lie to, his/her brain will perceive this question as a threat; therefore, the body’s emergency system will activate. The examinee will experience sudden changes taking place within his/her body, and simultaneously the polygraph instrument will permanently record them. For the examinee’s protection, the examiner will run more than one graph (asking the same questions more than once). This is to ensure that any changes taking place in the examinee’s body are due to the adrenaline rush caused by lying to a specific question, and is not exclusively due to a coincidental physiological change.
Polygraph as a scientific methodology can achieve accuracy rates of 95% or better in determining accuracy on non-deception (truth) or deception (lie) when administered by properly certified professional applying professional APA standards. It is worth mentioning that a person cannot beat or deceive a polygraph instrument but rather could beat the polygraph examiner by the single fact that the examiner does not have the preparation required under the guidelines stablished by the APA. Additionally, polygraphists must receive training periodically to maintain their status as members of the APA and to remain updated in the profession.
The three most important segments of society that use the polygraph include law enforcement agencies, the legal community, and the private sector. These are further described as follows:
An appropriately performed exam must consist of the steps listed below. If any of these steps are not conducted in the process, the results cannot be relied upon.
1. Introduce and explain procedure and equipment.
2. Collect background information and medical history of the examinee.
3. Discuss case facts and obtain a statement.
4. Examiner designs questions and reviews them with subject.
5. Run a pretend or demo test followed by the actual polygraph charts.
6. Chart analysis by examiner.
7. Discussion of results
Consequently, any examiner who claims that an effective polygraph test can be run in less time is not providing exams to any adequate standard of practice, and cannot ensure reliable results; which can have serious legal consequences
Polygraph exams should be conducted in a quiet place, free from distracting objects and/or outside noises. No one other than the subject and examiner are permitted in the exam room. Exams are fully recorded (video/audio).
It is the client’s responsibility to offer an appropriate testing space. The location must be quite and free from distracting noises and other interference (e.g., children playing, telephones, television and conversations). There must be a small table of at least 3 by 2 feet and at least two chairs. This room may be inside a home, office, warehouse or any location suitable for conduction the test. In addition, the temperature has to ideal, must to feel comfortable not cold or too warm.
You can schedule a Polygraph Exam by calling us:
A nonrefundable deposit of $200.00 minimum (per test) is required to secure the day and time for the test. Deposit and payment can be made with any Visa/Master credit or Debit cards, PayPal (no checks, sorry) and with the balance to be paid in full on the day of the polygraph exam or lie detector test (prior to services being rendered).