| What happens in a polygraph examination? |
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The polygraph examination generally takes 1½ to 2 hours. You meet privately with the polygraph examiner. The examiner will have you sign a release form, and you will determine who you want the results released to. The examiner will ask you some medical questions, to make sure you don’t have any medical issues that would prevent you from taking a polygraph examination. You will discuss the issue of the examination with the examiner. The polygraph questions will be formulated specifically for your test. There are no surprises in the polygraph examination, you will know all the questions before taking the exam. The examiner will thoroughly explain how the polygraph works. Then, the polygraph examination will be conducted. After the exam, the examiner will review the results. You will be told the results of the examination before leaving the office. |
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| How does nervousness effect a polygraph? |
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Nervousness does not effect a polygraph examination. Everyone that takes a polygraph examination is nervous, and it would be unusual if the examinee was not nervous. The polygraph examination reads small physiological changes that occur at the time you lie. This is easily distinguishable from nervousness. |
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| What about medical problems? |
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The examiner will discuss any medical issues or concerns you have before the examination. Medication will not make someone pass or fail the polygraph. If you are on medication, take your medication, as prescribed by your doctor, on the day of your examination. |
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| Can children be tested? |
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The generally accepted minimum age for a polygraph examination is 12 years. |
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| Can I have someone come with me for the polygraph examination? |
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You will not be allowed to have anyone with you during the polygraph examination. It is important that the examinee be completely open and honest with the examiner. If you have someone with you during the examination, your focus may be on what the other person is thinking. If you are being accused of doing something, you will not be as comfortable taking the examination with your accuser sitting in the room. |
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