A lie detector test is a modern way of revealing the truth in certain situations. It is often used by employers, married couples, and even investigators when conducting criminal or other cases. Many people today face such a procedure, and everyone is invariably interested in the question of how to go through the procedure most calmly and safely for themselves. Some believe that it is enough to remain silent and not let the cunning machine understand your reactions. But will this bring the desired result?
Features of polygraph testing
To give an exact answer to the question, it is necessary to understand how exactly the lie detector works. Many are mistaken, naively believing that it is a “magic machine” capable of detecting lies. In fact, the polygraph test is based on a purely scientific approach, and the equipment only reads a person’s reactions. It is important to note that the polygraph records physiological indicators – changes in blood pressure, heart rate, respiration and electrodermal activity of the skin (sweating).
The key point in conducting a polygraph test is the questions. They are carefully prepared based on the testing objectives and include different types: neutral, control and verification. The former are necessary to prepare for the test and adjust the equipment to basic human reactions. These are simple questions that do not evoke an emotional response (for example: “Is today Wednesday?”). Control questions are general and help determine the degree of sincerity of the subject in general. And finally, verification questions relate to a specific situation. In some cases, clarifying questions are also provided.
It is important to understand that the polygraph records reactions precisely when answering questions. You will achieve nothing at all by remaining silent. That is why the strictest requirements are imposed on the formulation of these questions. They must be:
- unambiguous (no ambiguous wording is allowed);
- meaningful and relevant to a specific situation;
- clear and concise (to give the shortest possible answer).
Most often, the polygraph examiner asks the subject to answer “yes” or “no.” This is enough to get the desired reaction. This means that you will still have to answer.
What happens if you don’t answer the questions?
The polygraph test procedure is strictly regulated. Thus, if you refuse to answer the questions, the test will be automatically failed or even perceived as sabotaged. What are the consequences? It all depends on the situation. Although any lie detector test is strictly voluntary, the consequences may be as follows:
- Refusal to take a lie detector test when hiring. It is becoming common practice among modern companies to conduct a lie detector test when hiring new personnel. This allows for maximum transparency and to check the qualifications and sometimes even the motives of the future employee. Refusal will not result in penalties, but you may simply not be hired if you do not comply with internal corporate conditions.
- Refusal to undergo testing during internal investigations and proceedings. If you choose to remain silent in this case, no criminal or administrative punishment will follow, since the polygraph is not a mandatory procedure. At the same time, the employer can draw his own conclusions about what your silence implies.
- Refusal to answer questions during criminal investigations. Often, a lie detector is used to clarify circumstances or identify reliable witnesses. The conclusion can be used as additional evidence, but you can refuse to answer questions if you do not want to. This will not lead to any consequences. And in the event of a polygraph failure, this can easily be refuted in court.
- Refusal to answer in personal disputes. In family conflicts, betrayal, mistrust and other private matters, the situation is more complicated. Of course, you can safely not answer. However, this can lead to a complete loss of trust and a breakdown in the relationship.
Given all of the above, there is only one conclusion to be drawn: silence will not help you pass the polygraph in any way, and can only worsen the situation in your personal relationships or at work. In most cases, it is enough to properly prepare and cope with stress, because the lie detector is a common procedure in the modern world. Try to get a good night’s sleep, do not take medications or alcohol, and do not try to fool the equipment. It is equally important to find a reliable lie detector dnepr, which will provide you with high accuracy, competent formulation of questions by experts, as well as impartiality of the research.