Polygraph tests are increasingly used by both companies and individuals. This is because this approach is effective in establishing the truth and resolving disputes and conflicts. At the same time, people still have a vague idea of how exactly a lie detector works. And some, in an effort to hide the truth, try to sabotage the polygraph. Today we will talk about whether it is possible to deceive the detector by monitoring the reactions of your own body.
Features of physiological reactions
Since the lie detector reads physiological reactions, it is worth explaining how the body reacts in certain cases. During the polygraph test, people are often in a state of anxiety. Attempts to lie cause even more stress. The whole point is that the body perceives the situation as a threat.
As soon as the body begins to experience stress, it invariably provokes certain reactions associated with the activation of biological mechanisms. All this involves a whole series of changes laid down in a person by nature for survival:
- Increased heart rate. This is the very first reaction that occurs in a stressful situation. This is due to the fact that the body is trying to provide enough oxygen to the organs and tissues. This allows a person to react faster and make decisions in the event of a threat.
- Increased breathing rate. This is another way to supply more oxygen for survival in a dangerous situation.
- Increased sweating. When the body senses a threat, it activates glands that promote increased sweating. This is due to the natural cooling mechanism that is necessary during increased physical exertion (which often happened when survival was necessary in primitive society).
- Increased pressure. Blood pressure increases to ensure that sufficient blood flows to the organs and tissues.
- Release of stress hormones. In stressful situations, cortisol and adrenaline are invariably released. They activate internal energy, help increase concentration and attention, and speed up reactions.
Thus, physiological reactions are inherent in us by nature. This means that controlling them requires not only great effort, but also deep knowledge and years of practice.
Theoretical probability of deceiving a polygraph
Any experienced polygraph examiner will tell you that in theory it is possible to conduct a polygraph test, because it is a machine. However, there are nuances here. Many people get advice on this matter from the Internet, which is unlikely to help them in any way. The fact is that the Internet is full of information designed for the everyday user. There is no talk of any special methods or deep control of reactions here.
By following banal recommendations, users only help polygraph examiners establish the truth, because any attempt by an “amateur” to resist the reactions of his own body is immediately visible on the equipment and noticeable to the specialist himself. This becomes additional confirmation that the person has something to hide.
In addition, the study involves different categories of questions. At the beginning of the test, the equipment is always adjusted for a specific user and the subject is studied to see if he is capable of deceiving the detector in principle. For example, questions like “Is your name Oleg?” can help with this. It is enough to ask a person to answer an obvious question untruthfully, and the reactions to the lie will immediately be clear to the expert.
As for controlling reactions, it is quite difficult for an ordinary person to control everything at once. The polygraph involves connecting a number of sensors to the subject to read heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, and sweating. As a result, it is almost impossible to restrain all reactions.
Methods used to control reactions
Some people seek control for one reason or another. Here are the most common ways:
- Breathing exercises: By taking controlled deep breaths, you can easily reduce your heart rate.
- Relaxation techniques. Meditation and relaxation help reduce overall stress levels. This may reduce the numbers somewhat.
- Focusing on something specific: Focusing on a specific thought can help distract your brain from the questions you are asking and the stress you are feeling.
Although such techniques may theoretically have some effect, untrained people may only make things worse. Inexperienced subjects will show jumps in reactions and behave unnaturally in an attempt to control reactions. Even in the case of maximum concentration, the lack of reactions will also be a cause for suspicion.
To pass a polygraph, which will give maximum results and help in achieving your goals, contact only trusted organizations and experienced polygraph examiners.