A polygraph test is a modern research method that allows you to establish the truth in certain confusing situations. However, even such precise equipment cannot guarantee absolute accuracy. Although the research is unbiased and completely based on a scientific approach, there are a number of subjective reasons or so-called human factors that can distort the results and take them beyond the norm. This is why it happens that a person does not agree with the results of the study. What should you do in such a case?
Reasons for distortion of test results
There are frequent cases when a person may disagree with the results of a polygraph test. Most often, such situations arise when the subject, intentionally or unknowingly, has not properly prepared for the test. The following factors can lead to a distortion of a person’s physiological reactions and, as a consequence, the results of their interpretation:
- Anxiety and stress. Some people may be particularly emotional or stressed about the test for one reason or another. As a result, heart rate, sweating, and other responses will often be higher. But this does not mean that the subject is necessarily lying.
- Incorrectly formulated questions. Formulating questions is one of the most important stages in preparing a polygraph test. Experts always carefully check each type of question so that they correspond to the purpose of the study and do not put excessive pressure on the subject. In the absence of due experience or bias of the examiners, the situation can turn negatively towards the person undergoing the study. This is why the key aspect for the reliability of the study is the selection of reliable specialists who know how to formulate questions and are unbiased.
- Incorrect preparation for testing. Not everyone understands how to properly prepare for the test. Physical and psychological state play a key role. Lack of sleep, taking certain medications, drinking alcohol and other factors distort physiological reactions, as a result of which the subject may not agree with the conclusion of the study. If such factors are present, it is best to cancel or reschedule the test. As a rule, good specialists are able to notice an unusual state of a person and insist on rescheduling the procedure themselves.
- Individual characteristics of the subject. Each person is individual, and therefore the indicators of the norm of various reactions may differ to some extent. As a rule, preparation and recording of indicators at rest allows determining the base level of heart rate and other reactions. It is also worth considering the presence of diseases of the nervous and cardiovascular systems, the initial level of anxiety and other aspects that can affect atypical reactions.
How to defend your honor in case of disagreement?
If you disagree with the results of a polygraph test, don’t panic. In this case, you can take the following actions:
- Ask for clarification. If you fail the test, you can talk to the polygraph examiner or the person who initiated the testing (for example, your employer). A detailed report will help you understand why the test was unfair. There are cases when it is only a matter of interpretation. In such cases, the results can always be reviewed.
- Request a re-examination. Every person has the right to defend themselves. This will be especially effective if there are objective reasons (for example, you were under increased stress due to certain circumstances, did not get enough sleep, etc.).
- Request an alternative test. If you have any doubts about the polygraph examiner’s impartiality or qualifications, request a second test from another examiner or another company.
- Remember the legal status of the polygraph results and the voluntary nature of the test. It is important to understand that you can only take the polygraph on a voluntary basis. In addition, the test results cannot serve as direct evidence of guilt in court. They can only be accepted as accompanying facts, supported by more reliable evidence. Thus, a lawyer can easily challenge the result.
To feel confident and not worry about the results, try to properly prepare for the study. To do this, follow your normal daily routine, get a good night’s sleep, and try to stay calm. It is equally important to choose a reliable lie detector Odessa, to ensure the impartiality and high accuracy of the polygraph examination.