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Polygraphs

A polygraph, or lie detector, is a machine that measures certain types of bio data, such as a person's heart rate, during a series of questioning. The results of this data is believed to reflect the person's measure of honesty while giving their answers.

256 Questions

Why pseudoscience is the polygraph?

Some consider the polygraph a pseudoscience because of the variability of the results of polygraphic testing.

Can a lie detector be used to revoke probation?

The results of lie detectors (Polygraphs) cannot be used as evidence in court prceedings, but they CAN be used during investigations. REMEMBER: You are not a free person. You have already been found guilty of a crime and are serving a lenient sentence for it. If you violate the conditions of your sentence you do not get another bite at the courtroom procedure "apple," you can go directly to jail.

Are there any DNA tests that can be taken that would prove that you have not slept with somebody as the thought of lie detector tests makes you really nervous and a DNA test seems more concrete?

No. Not even slightly possible. Lie detector results are not proof either though. If your s/o is insisting on you taking a lie detector test to prove you're not sleeping around then take my advice and ditch the ho/a55hole ;-)

Is the polygraph easily accessible to everyone?

Yes, check out ebay. There are people selling them all over the place on there.

Does the military use polygraph for applications into CID NCIS etc?

Usually not during the initial application process. However, for assignments dealing with any classified information, mostlikely. These will be "counter-intelligence" sessions, not the normal law enforcement "tell me everything" style.

What are the parts of a polygraph machine?

A lie detector picks up changes in your pulse and heart rate. Generally when you tell a lie, your pulse will increase because you don't want to tell the person what you are hiding and consequently become nervous.

It has been confirmed that a lie detector can not be trusted fully to determine whether you are lying or not.

What is a sentence using the word polygraph?

Clara had to take a polygraph test on the latest game show 'Tell the truth'.

Is their any method of checking virginity?

There is no positive known method for knowing if a woman is a virgin or not. Lie detector test may be the best way, but is not inclusive.

Does MS condition effect a lie detector answer?

Multiple Sclerosis should not impact the answers you give on a polygraph machine. Polygraph machines measure physical reactions to questions, reactions such as pulse, blood pressure, galvanic skin response, respiration, and sphincter muscle activity.

If you have a bowel control problem, tell the examiner before you begin, as this may impact the response gathered from the seat pad. Also tell the examiner any medications you're taking, as some might impact things like pulse or blood pressure.

Another answers.com contributor wrote:

That's all standard Polygraph BS! MS can and does effect the results of a Polygraph. Involuntary shaking, tremors of the arms and legs are common MS symptoms and since the person being Polygraphed is NOT to move during the test then the involuntary movements will cause the test to be determined inconclusive or deceptive.

By the way, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled Polygraphs are not accurate and cannot be used in Court unless both the prosecuting attorney and the defendants attorney agree to let the results of the test be admitted as evidence.

Also, a Polygraph test measures nothing but pulse, blood pressure, galvanic skin response, respiration, and sphincter muscle activity. However, many different things can and do effect the results such as recalling a bad experience related to the issue at hand. Blood pressure can be elevated this way.

So any body believing a Polygraph test is lie proof or that MS doesn't effect the results are just stupid imbeciles.

Let's dissect each of these points one at a time:

MS can and does effect the results of a Polygraph. Involuntary shaking, tremors of the arms and legs are common MS symptoms and since the person being Polygraphed is NOT to move during the test then the involuntary movements will cause the test to be determined inconclusive or deceptive.

Let's clarify a few points: 1. Involuntary shaking of the arms and legs is NOT a common symptom of MS. Actually, tremors are less common than other MS symptoms. Additionally, tremors and other involuntary muscle movement, if it did register at all on the polygraph (which it usually does not, as the only sensors that detect movement are the seat pad and the respiration monitor), can be taken into consideration. 2. Involuntary muscle movements alone will not cause the test to automatically be inconclusive, and certainly would not be cause to flag the test as deceptive. At worst, answers would be invalidated and the test would need to be re-done.

the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled Polygraphs are not accurate and cannot be used in Court unless both the prosecuting attorney and the defendants attorney agree to let the results of the test be admitted as evidence.

Off-topic. This question asked about how MS affects a polygraph, not about the admissibility of polygraph tests.

many different things can and do effect the results such as recalling a bad experience related to the issue at hand. Blood pressure can be elevated this way.

Again, off-topic. Anyone, not just MS patients, can have this experience during a polygraph test.

So any body believing a Polygraph test is lie proof or that MS doesn't effect the results are just stupid imbeciles.

Beside the fact that these are ridiculous, harsh generalizations and personal opinion, they are not true. We know that polygraph machine results are not entirely reliable, but they are useful as part of the body of evidence which is used in a variety of settings, the least of which is in law enforcement. For example, most government agencies use a polygraph as part of the body of evidence considered when determining whether or not a person will receive access to classified information. No court proceedings are required in such a case, so the admissibility in court is moot.

How much will it cost to take a lie detector test and how much is a lie detector instrument?

It depends on the issue. $400 is a starting point. Some polygraph examiners will charge as much as $1500 for a polygraph test.

The instrument is a different story. They're now using computerized polygraphs. The software program and equipment will run around $6K. A used analog instrument will run around $1,200

i think about $400.00

Can you use a lie detector in a UK court?

No. Although some American jurisdictions put some weight on "lie detector tests" it generally falls into the category of "only in America". A significantly high proportion of the scientific community believe polygraphs have no value. They are not admissible in some US states. In the UK they are regarded as being as reliable as palm reading or seances - British courts require hard probative evidence whether in their civil or criminal jurisdictions. In Australia (same legal system as Britain), they are regarded as a joke. There is no way of telling whether a person is telling the truth or lying (although if I am being truthful, I become flustered & act incredibly guilty).

Am qualified solicitor. Have read a good deal on the subject since my Law School Years (where they were also regarded as a joke).

What is the word polygraph in a sentence?

The polygraph test is not "proof-positive".

The polygraph test is not completely unreliable.

Is it correct that polygraph is also known as the smoke detector?

No, they are called Lie Detectors. Maybe Smoke detector might apply to their use by Fire Marshals investigating Arson suspects! not funny.

How much would it cost to purchase a bug detector?

A bug detector is a device used to check a room for the presence of devices that are able to broadcast or record conversations. Bug detectors are available in a range of prices, from simple devices at around å£5 up to many hundred of pounds for more sophisticated models.

How does being bipolar affect a pollygraph test?

Bipolar disorder can potentially affect the accuracy of a polygraph test due to the emotional and physiological fluctuations associated with the condition. Individuals may experience extreme mood swings, which can influence their stress levels and physiological responses during the test. Additionally, if a person is in a manic or depressive episode, it may impact their ability to respond truthfully or consistently, leading to unreliable results. However, the extent of this effect can vary significantly among individuals.

What are the basic functions of the polygraph and its legal status in the courts?

In police work, the two major uses of polygraph testing are specific issue testing and preemployment screening. In specific issue testing, the polygraph is used to investigate whether a particular person is responsible for or involved in the commission of a specific offense. Polygraph testing can help to verify information collected during traditional background investigations and to uncover information not otherwise available. The commonly held belief that polygraph examination results are not admitted into evidence in court is untrue. Some courts admit polygraph evidence even over the objection of counsel; in other jurisdictions, polygraph results are admitted by stipulation

What state is illegal to use a lie detector for employment?

In California, it is illegal for employers to use lie detector tests for employment purposes, with certain exceptions. The law prohibits the use of polygraph tests in hiring, promotion, and retention decisions. This regulation aims to protect job applicants and employees from potential misuse of lie detector results. Other states may have similar restrictions, but California is one of the most notable.

Can a polygraph test give false readings?

It's not perfectly clear what you mean by "false readings."

A polygraph test makes measurements of certain quantities. Assuming the equipment is working properly, these can't actually be "false", they are what they are. They may be invalid because it was hooked up wrong, or because the machine is not working right.

The interpretation of the readings is done by a person, and it's certainly possible for that person to reach a false conclusion.

How could polygraph results be used in plea bargaining?

The polygraph is sometimes useful to develop leads. Verify statements and crosscheck information. Moreover, it provides the police with a psychological advantage that may lead to a confession. Such confessions are admissible in court even though the test results are not. The proper tests are then determined, and the questions prepare and reviewed with the subject. After the test is completed, the subject and the police advised of the results in person or by letter. If the test indicates deception, an individual interrogation may follow. Any confessions that follow from such tests are almost universally accepted by the courts. The examiner's testimony is not conclusive evidence but rather opinion evidence regarding either guilt or innocence.

Where can you take your boyfriend to take a lie detector test in Los Angeles?

  • Lie detector tests are not 100 percentage accurate and therefore not even admissible in a court of law. An individual just does not walk in and expect to have their boyfriend given a lie detector test because you feel he is cheating on you and it is only use by law enforcement. You would have more luck not harassing him about cheating; let a few days pass and then with a friend follow him to see what he is up too and perhaps catch him in the act.