Polygraph Glossary Technique

control test

Definition

A control test is an alternate term for a known-numbers test. See: stimulation test.

What Is a Control Test?

A control test is a general term for any test or procedure used to establish a known baseline or verify instrument function. In polygraph practice, it most commonly refers to the stimulation test — conducted with a known stimulus (number, card) providing a controlled reference for evaluating the examinee's physiological responsiveness and instrument capability.

Multiple Purposes

The control test simultaneously verifies that the polygraph instrument is properly configured to detect physiological changes and that the examinee produces detectable responses. It also produces a deception exemplar and establishes the examinee's confidence in (or concern about) the instrument. Under psychological set theory, this demonstration influences the response dynamics for subsequent diagnostic testing.

Calibration Function

Beyond its psychological function, the control test serves as an instrument calibration check. The examiner verifies that all sensors (electrodermal, pneumograph, cardiograph) are recording clean data, that gain settings are appropriate for the examinee's physiology, and that the examinee understands and can follow the test procedure before diagnostic chart collection begins.

Cross-references

More technique terms in this glossary

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