POLYGRAPHY

INTRODUCTION
The modern investigators today h a v e numerous technical investigative aids available
to assist them in their quest for the facts of a crime or incident. One of these is the polygraph.
In order for the investigator to obtain the greatest value from the polygraph, he should
know its capabilities and limitations; the assistance he c a n render the examiner; and the
directives and regulations pertaining to its use. Remember that a polygraph instrument c a n only
be of value when utilized properly, and is not a substitute for a thorough investigation or as a
crutch for a poor one.
The focus of the study is on the capabilities, limitations and the standard procedures of
polygraph examination.

NEED-TO-KNOW CONCEPTS

What is POLYGRAPHY?

It is the scientific method of detecting truth or deception through the use or aid of a
polygraph machine. This is the new name of Lie Detection.
Polygraph testing is often used to confirm or exonerate person's involvement in any
suspected activity or wrongdoing. In the absence of any other corroborative evidence, this is of
great significance.

What is a POLYGRAPH?

The term “polygraph” simply means “many writings.” It derived from the two Greek
words, “Poly” which means “MANY OR MORE” and “Graphos” which mean “WRITING”.
Is an instrument or a device capable of producing recordings of physiological phenomena
that may be used as the basis of the application of a reliable technique for diagnosing truth or
deception.
The name refers to the manner in which selected physiological responses are
simultaneously recorded. It is a recorder of the psycho-physiological changes occurring within
the examinee’s body as the polygraph examiner asks series of questions.
Basically, the polygraph instrument is a combination of medical devices used by
physicians monitoring and checking the physical conditions of their patients. As an examinee is
questioned about a certain event or incident, the instrument records and monitors the relative
changes in the examinee’s heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and electrodermal
activities.
This is not an electrical device that detects lies or truth, but is an instrument used to
determine whether or not the statements made by the subject taking the test are deceptive.

POLYGRAPH TEST – is a series of relevant, irrelevant, and controlled questions

prepared by the examiner, for the matter under investigation, and asked of the
p e r s o n being examined.
Consist of 4 relevant, 4 irrelevant and 2 controlled questions.

Is polygraph a Lie Detector?

Lie detector is popular but misleading name of the Polygraph. The instrument was so
named because it is commonly used in lie detection. During the test, polygraph makes various
recordings of a personal’s physiological responses which will be interpreted by the polygraphist
to determine whether the subject has been lying or not.
Consequently, the polygraph instrument does not detect lie itself but the examiner. It only
assists in detecting persons lying and/or truthfulness through its recorded physiological
responses.
What is the other name of the Polygraph?

Polygraph in some instances is also called “Truth Verifier” for in vast majority of the
instances the instrument verifies a person’s truthfulness.

What are the Concepts of Polygraph Examination?

Polygraph examination is used to test an individual for the purpose of detecting deception
or verifying the truthfulness of his statements.
It is done by recording identifiable physiological reactions of the subject, such as; blood
pressure, pulse rate, respiration and skin resistance.
It is based on the theory that:
“a conscious mental effort on the part of a normal person to deceive, causes involuntary
physiological changes that is in effect a body’s reaction to an imminent danger to its well-
being.”

What are the objectives of a Polygraph Examination?

Polygraph examination is conducted in order to:

1. Obtain additional investigative leads to the facts of the case/offenses.

2. Ascertain if a person is telling the truth.
3. Locate the fruits or tools of the crime and whereabouts of wanted persons.
4. Identify other persons involved (accomplices of crime).
5. Obtain valuable information from reluctant witnesses.
6. Eliminate the innocent suspects.

Proven Successful Usage of Polygraph

1. Eliminating suspects
2. Recognizing false complaints
3. Testing informants to determine the veracity of information provided
4. Providing a new "key" to an investigation when all other standard investigative
techniques have been exhausted
5. Narrowing the focus of inquiry
6. Gathering additional information and evidence
7. Assisting to focus the investigation on particular suspects

What are the Principal Uses of the Polygraph Examination?

1. Criminal investigation – it aids in investigating criminal incidents and issues, speeds up

the process of investigation and eliminates innocent suspects.
2. Pre-employment screening of job applicants.
3. Honesty test (Periodic test).

NOTE:
In Criminal investigation, polygraph examination is optional and the subject may refuse
to take the test, while in Pre-employment screening of job applicants, it is mandatory for it is part
of the requirements for hiring potential employees by some companies and employment
agencies.