How accurate is a polygraph test?
In 2011, the Meta-analytic Survey of Criterion Accuracy of Validated Polygraph Techniques was released by the American Polygraph Association. In the report, it contains information concerning the accuracy of the validated techniques given specified scoring methods. So, to answer the question mentioned above correctly, you must know what format and what method of scoring will be utilized. Please see the APAreport to get a detailed account of each technique/scoring method.
My answer to the above question would be that for a single issue test (concerning a known event), one can expect the test to have an accuracy rate of 90% to 93%, and a multi-facet/issue test would have an accuracy range from 82% to 88%.
Will I fail because I am nervous?
NO. The polygraph test results will not be affected because you are nervous during the test. Everyone who takes a polygraph test (even the individuals who are going, to tell the truth) will be nervous during the test. If being nervous during the test caused someone to fail, no one would ever pass a polygraph test. Yet, people pass all the time.
Who can take a polygraph test?
Anyone over the age of 12 that can demonstrate abstract thinking, a basic understanding of right and wrong, who knows the difference between truth from a lie, can anticipate rewards or consequences for being truthful or being dishonest and can consistently orient themselves to time, date and location.
How long does it take?
The average polygraph test lasts 2 to 3 hours. Many individuals are surprised when they hear this, but specific information must be reviewed, including a detailed account of what questions will be asked, and a determination of suitability is made before the examination.
Can the test be beaten?
No research shows that the polygraph test can be “fooled” or “beaten” by naive examinees or examinees that have read about how the polygraph test works. The research clearly shows that the accuracy of the polygraph test is not diminished in any way concerning the examinees above.
Who gets the results?
The only individuals that get the results are the examinee (person who takes the test), and to any individual that the examinee gives written consent indicating that they can get the results.
How much does it cost?
Fidelity polygraph $400.00
Criminal polygraph $400.00
Therapeutic polygraph $400.00
Pre-employment polygraph $300.00
PCSOT polygraph $400.00
Where?
I conduct polygraph examinations in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York.