Do lie detector tests really work?

Question

I reckon I could beat oneHas anyone ever had one done?

Answer 1

Lie detectors work by measuring the difference between a number of physiological factors. It is assumed that when we lie we become stressed and our heart rate, blood pressure, sweat glands etc. re-act in a measurable way. Therefore firstly a base level is measured in response to neutral questions e.g. your name, address etc. This is then compared to your response to the test questions. If a heightened response is measure it can be assumed your lying. However if you are nervous or extremely calm then the detector can give false “readings”. Also by stressing yourself when the neutral questions are asked and relieving the stress during the test questions (e.g. inflicting a low level pain on yourself) the operator can be fooled into interpreting the results incorrectly.
So no lie detector do not work beyond reasonable doubt, otherwise we would introduce them into the British legal system.

Answer 2

I have heard that they are not 100% correct.

While some people believe that polygraph tests are reliable, there is little scientific evidence to buttress this claim. For example, while some claim the test to be accurate in 70% - 90% of the cases, critics charge that rather than a "test", the method amounts to an inherently unstandardizable interrogation technique whose accuracy cannot be established. Critics also argue that even given high estimates of the polygraph's accuracy a significant number of subjects (e.g. 10% given a 90% accuracy) will appear to be lying, and would unfairly suffer the consequences of "failing" the polygraph. It is interesting to note that, so far, no scientific study has been published that offers convincing evidence of the validity of the polygraph test.

Answer 3

The people who are giving it will swear that it works. BUT in reality, no they can be beat. A pathalogical liar can pass one every single time. And a totally honest person can fail it just becasue this person is nervous. This is why they are NOT allowed to be used in a court of law.

Answer 4

Lie detector wok in 99 percent cases.If the test is not done properly,hifh will power,hardened criminals etc some may not prove anything.Polygraph is reliable to very high percentage.

Answer 5

i had one due to my fathers profession, it is very hard to beat unless you train hard enough and know how to beat it.
Trust me it's not as easy as it seems.

Answer 6

On the whole they do work, but with training they can be beaten.

Answer 7

Only if you lie.

Answer 8

I don't know but they melt your skin off...

Answer 9

no......beep....