FAQ

A polygraph test is a test that measures the body's physiological responses to determine whether or not someone is being honest in answering specific questions.

A polygraph works by measuring variations in blood pressure, heart rate, respiration, skin conductance and skin reactance while the examinee is asked questions.

The main components of a polygraph include sensors to measure blood pressure, heart rate, respiration and skin conductance.

During a polygraph testIn order to assess the physiological responses of the examinee, control questions, relevant questions and irrelevant questions are asked.

The polygraph tests are conducted by certified and trained polygraph examiners.

A polygraph examiner must have recognised certification, specific training in the use of polygraphs and experience in conducting examinations.

Yes, it is necessary to complete specific training at a recognised polygraph school and obtain certification to become a polygraph examiner.

The tests of polygraphs are used in criminal investigationsThe following are some of the most common situations in which the truthfulness of claims needs to be verified: pre-employment assessments, internal investigations, and in personal situations.

Although it is difficult to fool a polygrapher, it is not impossible.
Some techniques may help alter physiological responses, but an experienced examiner will can detect attempts at deception.

The accuracy of a polygraph can be affected by factors such as the skill of the examiner, the condition of the examinee, the type of questions and the presence of drugs or substances in the examinee's system.

If someone disagrees with the results, they can request a review of the data by another certified examiner or take another test with a different examiner.

Prior to the test, the examiner informs the examinee about the process, obtains consent and conducts an interview to gather relevant information and establish a set of questions.

Prohibited questions vary by jurisdiction, but generally include those that violate privacy, discriminatory questions, or those unrelated to the purpose of the test.

Yes, a person can refuse to take a polygraph test, but the consequences of refusal depend on the context in which the test is requested.

Polygraph tests are generally safe and non-invasive, but may cause anxiety or stress in some people.

A person's rights during a polygraph test include the right to be informed about the process, to give consent, to stop the test at any time and, in some cases, to ask for a
review of the results.

The examiner analyses the physiological responses recorded during the test with the help of the polygraph software, which has a complicated system of algorithms to determine whether there are indications of deception or sincerity in the answers to the relevant questions.

The admissibility of polygraph results as evidence in a trial varies according to the jurisdiction and the circumstances of the case. In Spain, the test, like all tests, depends on Your Honour for it to be accepted. It is usually incorporated, as one more piece of evidence within a Psychological Expert Report, as objective proof of the creativity of the testimony.

The average cost of a polygraph test varies depending on the location and complexity of the case, but generally ranges from €300 to €1000.

Yes, you can request a test of polygraph for personal useHowever, it is important to bear in mind the limitations and accuracy of the test.

There are other techniques for lie detection such as body language analysis, voice assessment and facial expression analysis, although none of these are infallible.

A polygraph is an instrument used to carry out lie detection tests, while a lie detector is a generic term that can refer to different techniques or devices used to determine whether or not someone is being honest, including the polygraph.

When selecting a polygraph examiner, consider his or her
experience, certification, reputation, cost and communication skills.

To prepare, make sure you are well rested, avoid substances that may alter the results, understand the test process and arrive with a cooperative attitude.

If someone has a medical or psychological condition that could affect the results, it is important to inform the examiner before the test so that he/she can take the necessary precautions and evaluate whether the test is
appropriate.

It is, of course, a test of veracity of testimony, used as a supplement to authenticity in pleadings, especially when there is no evidence other than the statements themselves.

The polygraph test is accepted, it is at the discretion of the Honourable Member.

You can find out more about testing for polygraph and its applications through of professional polygraph organisations, accredited polygraph schools and online resources dedicated to the subject.