Table of Contents
LieDetectorTest.com is committed to establishing an accurate, scientific, and ethical approach to truth verification, driven by integrity and adherence to best practices. Through a carefully constructed framework, we aim to support the pursuit of truth, maintain the highest professional standards, and provide transparent guidelines for polygraph practitioners. By following the standards of both the British Polygraph Society (BPS) and the American Polygraph Association (APA), our Organisation promotes a responsible, evidence-based approach to polygraph testing. This document outlines our core aims, definitions, and the principles that guide our practice, ensuring professionalism and reliability in every examination.
Aims
- Commitment to Truth and Fairness
LieDetectorTest.com aims to serve truth with honesty, objectivity, and fairness, offering an impartial and ethical approach to polygraph testing for all clients and stakeholders. - Support for Research, Education, and Training
We are dedicated to advancing research, education, and training for members and affiliates. By providing a forum to share findings and methods, we foster growth and knowledge within the polygraph community. - Upholding Membership Standards
LieDetectorTest.com is committed to establishing and enforcing high standards for membership admission and continuity, ensuring that our members meet strict qualifications and adhere to professional codes. - Ensuring Ethical Examiner Conduct
We uphold a Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, ensuring that our examiners conduct themselves professionally, ethically, and in accordance with all applicable regulations.
Statement of Purpose
Polygraph testing, when executed by a highly trained examiner using validated protocols, provides a scientifically reliable method for determining truthfulness. In alignment with BPS and APA standards, LieDetectorTest.com’s Standards of Practice aim to maximize accuracy while ensuring that all examinations comply with local, state, and federal laws.
Key Definitions
- Standards: Mandatory principles that guide the preparation, conduct, analysis, documentation, and reporting of polygraph examinations.
- Guidelines: Recommended, though non-binding, practices that support recognized best methods for polygraph examinations.
- Polygraph Examination: A psychophysiological assessment involving interactions between examiner and subject, including a pretest interview, physiological recording, data analysis, and a qualified opinion.
- Evidential Examination: A polygraph test in which the results are formally agreed upon to be used as evidence in legal proceedings.
- Paired Testing Examination: Polygraph examinations administered to two or more participants regarding a shared fact or event, agreed upon by all parties.
- Investigative Examination: A polygraph examination used as a supplementary investigative tool, without expectation of legal submission.
- Diagnostic Examination: An examination focused on assessing the subject’s awareness or involvement in a specific incident.
- Screening Examination: A polygraph examination conducted without a direct allegation, used to assess general behavior over specific periods.
- APA: The American Polygraph Association.
- BPS: The British Polygraph Society.
- Organisation: Refers to LieDetectorTest.com or any successor, also referred to as “LieDetectorTest.com.”
- Test Data Analysis: Structured methods, manual or automated, used to evaluate physiological data to reach decisions regarding honesty or withheld knowledge.
Standards for Polygraph Examiner Qualifications
- Educational and Training Requirements
Examiners must meet defined educational standards and complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years to ensure knowledge remains current. - Specialist Training for Post-Conviction Testing
Examiners conducting post-conviction sex offender testing (PCSOT) are required to complete an additional 40 hours of specialized training. - Documentation of Continuing Education
Examiners must keep records of their ongoing education to verify compliance with professional standards.
Standards for Polygraph Examinees
- Assessing Suitability for Testing
Examiners should evaluate the examinee’s physical and mental suitability for testing, taking into account any medical or psychological conditions. - Pretest Screening for Medical or Psychological Factors
Examiners may inquire about medical treatments or consultations to assess any factors that could affect physiological responses.
Instrumentation and Recording Requirements
- Recording Physiological Data
Polygraph instruments must record separate thoracic and abdominal breathing patterns, electrodermal activity, cardiovascular activity, and use a motion sensor. - Calibration and Functionality
Instruments should undergo bi-annual calibration checks or follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure functionality and accuracy.
Test Location and Conditions
- Ensuring a Distraction-Free Environment
Tests should be conducted in a private, quiet setting free from distractions, supporting both examinee comfort and data accuracy. - Public Testing and Reenactments
Examiners must clearly communicate if tests are reenactments and refrain from providing conclusions based on polygraph results conducted in public view.
Pretest Preparation and Practices
- Thorough Issue Identification
Examiners must allow adequate time during the pretest interview to identify and discuss relevant issues thoroughly. - Informed Consent
Consent should be obtained from the examinee only after a clear explanation of the polygraph process, procedures, and expectations.
Polygraph Testing Standards
- Use of Validated Techniques
Only polygraph techniques supported by validated research are used, ensuring accuracy and reliability in each examination. - Accuracy Requirements for Different Test Types
Techniques must meet specific accuracy standards based on the examination type, with empirical studies supporting each approach.
Scoring Standards
- Validated Scoring Methods
Examiners are required to use standardized scoring methods to ensure consistent and transparent results. - Confidentiality and Quality Control
Examiners must maintain confidentiality and participate in an annual quality control review to ensure adherence to best practices.
Standards for Post-Conviction Sex Offender Testing (PCSOT)
- Specialized Training
PCSOT examiners must complete a minimum of 40 hours of specialized training and pass a final written examination. - Conflict of Interest Provisions
Examiners who are therapists or probation officers should not conduct tests on individuals they supervise directly or indirectly.
