I recently took a polygraph test for a position in the law enforcement field (dispatcher). I listed everything embarrassing that happened in my life that I could remember including things I did when I was a teenager. I admitted taking Valium and Skelaxin w/o a prescription and also told the times I almost went out on my husband. Here is the kicker, I still showed a big response to the questions "Have you ever taken any illegal drugs other than the ones we discussed?" and "Have I ommitted or falsified anything on the application?" and had responses to these questions. I was very nervous taking this, so nervous I shook all over in the chair I was sitting in. I mean, I disclosed alot of things to the tester, why would I be ashamed to tell him other things. Now the company probably won't hire me. I don't know what else to do.
2006-07-31 08:14:21 · 10 answers · asked by sugarbaby3174 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law Enforcement & Police
What you should have done is to prepare for the test just like you would any other test.
The purpose of a polygraph is to make you nervous so you'll confess things. You might not have even really reacted to those questions. The examiners will say things like that, particularly in regards to drug usage and theft, to try to get you to confess things you hadn't already told them. There is an expectation that you have lied about something. So if you are a truly honest person and really did tell them everything, you're screwed because you won't have anything to offer up when they start trying to mess with your mind.
If you ever have another one, read up on how to spoof them first, and think of the polygraph examiner as an enemy you must fool rather than a friend you should confide in.
2006-07-31 08:22:18 · answer #1 · answered by lenny 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Go to antipoygraph.org and download "The Lie Behind the Lie Detector". These machines do not work. Well, ok, they work, but they can't tell if you are lying anymore than your toaster can. The reason that you would have failed is the fact that you are too honest, and a polygraph has a built in bias against honest people. The more you disclose, the more you will flatline on the "control" questions that are asked, and the more you will show a reaction on the "relevant" questions. These machines need to be outlawed, they have never even been tested for accuracy by an independent study. Any accuracy claims and "test" results available have come from the American Polygraphy Institute, so how fair do you think they are.
2006-07-31 18:22:11 · answer #2 · answered by sixfour76 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Here's the answer from the cop:
I have had to take a polygraph before, and even I was nervous. Human nature, welcome to Earth.
My city's polygraph examiners are all very experienced and recognized by the courts as a polygraph expert. They take into account a person's nervousness when taking the tests. Most people who are nervous during the test are nervous during the whole thing. It provides an easy to read baseline that allows them to discern nervousness from a possible positive reading.
Also, they should have done 3 tests in a row to compare the the readings on all the answers. This allows for you to be nervous on some answers during the first test. Remember, it's human nature, were on planet Earth, it's going to happen. They should have been able to tell from the other 2 tests that you were just nervous one the first one.. Maybe there's something you're not telling us........
2006-08-01 05:14:02 · answer #3 · answered by Family Guy 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is very likely you were thinking of something else related to the question and it caused a response. Nervousness has nothing to do with it. When I took and passed every polygraph to be a cop every tester said "we have never seen anyone as uptight as you" yet I passed.
They are not testing for lies. They are testing for reactions to questions. If you react to a question, you likely have something to hide. Especially the "omission" question. You may want to re-evaluate what you were thinking about that caused you to react.
As for people telling you to find ways to fake out the test. There is only one way I have seen done succesfully and it is almost impossible to pull off. There is no medicine or exercise that will fool a good tester. So, just be straight up and tell everything including the time you accidentally stepped on your sisters cheerios when you were 4 years old.
2006-07-31 11:14:31 · answer #4 · answered by John D 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A good polygrapher has been trained to spot all of the fake outs and more importantly, they even suspect you of trying to fake it out? You really won't get the job.
Yes, the tests make you nervous...heck, thats human. It's intimidating and scary...but they are just a tool. You may be given the chance to take it again so just relax and do the best you can.
If you "try" anything....try simply looking at the questions as just that, questions. No diff if you were simply having a convo with someone. Do your best to put the machine out of your mind and just answer the questions.
Most people fail simply because they overthink the whole thing. Lots of law abiding, honest citizens fail job polys. Doesn't make you a bad person.
2006-07-31 19:33:17 · answer #5 · answered by sarhibar 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There was a problem at one of the places I work. I volunteered to take a polygraph because I was the newest employee and wanted to remove any suspicions my boss might have. I was very nervous even though I had nothing to do with the crime that was committed. It is very invasive, they ask about every bad thing you have ever done in your life. Your best bet is to be completely honest. I passed with flying colors. It is normal to be nervous in that situation. If the company you are applying to is looking for honest people, I do not think they will care about indiscretions in your past. Ask if you can take it again, and just let it all out. Your tester cannot reveal any of the personal info you give to anyone, except maybe current drug use or criminal activity to your prospective employer, even then she/he cannot give specifics. Good luck to you.
2006-07-31 09:03:19 · answer #6 · answered by frogspeaceflower 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I feel I am a overly honest person and I would be nervous if I had to take the test and thus I am sure someone would find my answers questionable. But I have a relative that is an actor and a great liar and who passed a polygraph. when he did do what he did. I don't find them accurate enough.
2006-07-31 08:35:11 · answer #7 · answered by JENNLUPE 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Polygraph tests are shown to be inadmissible in court cases do to the fact that they read a persons blood pressure, and other vitals. These high readings can mean a variety of things from nerves, or other things that are going on in your life.
I wouldn't worry just yet, now if they don't call you, or if a police officer comes to your house be worried, JK. Don't worry, right now, no news is good news.
Besides, what is the worst they can say???????
You didn't get the job, and then you would be no worse off then. Relax, and don't try to think about it.
2006-07-31 08:23:05 · answer #8 · answered by vegaschic 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
People react differently. They usually do test questions to set a standard, but that doesn't stop your heart from jumping up into your throat when they ask certain questions, even if you are telling the truth. That is why they are not allowed in as evidence in a courtroom. They can be a good tool for helping to clear someone of a crime, but they can also give false positives, which makes it hard for you to prove your innocence.
2006-07-31 09:01:19 · answer #9 · answered by The Nana of Nana's 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't think they are all that accurate. I'd be nervous taking one too.
2006-07-31 08:18:38 · answer #10 · answered by Anthony S 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋