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, and skin conductance and reactance while questions are asked of the examinee.

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

During a polygraph test, control questions, relevant questions and irrelevant questions are asked to assess the examinee’s physiological responses.

Polygraph tests are conducted by certified and trained polygraph examiners.

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

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

Polygraph tests are used in criminal investigations, pre-employment evaluations, internal investigations and in personal situations where the truthfulness of statements needs to be verified.

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

The accuracy of a polygraph test 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 his or her 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 noninvasive, 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 request a
review of the results.

The examiner analyzes 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 at trial varies by jurisdiction and the circumstances of the case. In Spain, the test, like all tests, depends on Your Honor for acceptance. It is usually incorporated, as another 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 polygraph test for personal use, although it is important to be aware of the limitations and accuracy of the test.

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

A polygraph is an instrument used to conduct lie detection tests, while a lie detector is a generic term that can refer to different techniques or devices used to determine whether someone is being honest or not, 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 consuming substances that may alter the results, understand the testing 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 prior to the test so that he or she can take the necessary precautions and assess whether the test is
appropriate.

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

The polygraph test is accepted, it is at Your Honor’s discretion.

You can learn more about polygraph testing and its applications through professional polygraph organizations, accredited polygraph schools and online resources dedicated to the subject.