Image for polygraph testing

polygraph testing

Polygraph testing, commonly known as lie detection, measures physiological responses such as heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and skin conductivity while a person answers questions. The theory is that deceptive behavior triggers stress responses that can be detected by the polygraph. Typically used in criminal investigations and employment screenings, results are often debated for their accuracy and reliability. While some believe they can help indicate truthfulness, others point out that various factors—like anxiety or medical conditions—can affect the results, making it a controversial tool in assessing honesty.

Additional Insights

  • Image for polygraph testing

    Polygraph testing, commonly known as a lie detector test, measures physiological responses such as heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and skin conductivity while a person answers questions. The premise is that deceptive answers may trigger notable changes in these responses due to stress or anxiety. During the test, the examiner asks a series of questions, and the resultant data is analyzed to determine if there are significant deviations that might suggest deception. However, the accuracy and reliability of polygraph tests are debated, and they are not universally accepted as definitive evidence of truthfulness or dishonesty.