Polygraph Glossary Practice

global analysis

Definition

Global analysis evaluates polygraph recordings as a whole and may include extrapolygraphic information such as examinee behaviour and case facts. Championed by Reid and Arther, it contrasts with the purely numerical approach. Also called the clinical approach.

What Is Global Analysis?

Global analysis is a method of polygraph chart interpretation in which the examiner evaluates the overall pattern of physiological responses across all charts, channels, and questions holistically, rather than scoring each analysis spot independently with numerical values. It is closely related to the clinical approach and contrasts with the structured, spot-by-spot methodology of numerical scoring.

How It Differs from Numerical Scoring

In numerical scoring, each comparison point is independently assigned a value, and these values are summed to produce a total that determines the outcome. Global analysis instead considers the totality of the data — the direction and consistency of responding across charts, the relative strength of responses in each channel, and the overall pattern of the examination. The examiner forms a holistic judgment rather than calculating a numerical total.

Current Status

Global analysis has been largely superseded by structured scoring systems in validated practice, due to concerns about lower interrater reliability and susceptibility to examiner bias. The APA Standards of Practice require validated test data analysis methods, and purely global/clinical interpretation does not meet this requirement for diagnostic conclusions. However, global evaluation skills remain useful for assessing data quality and identifying issues not captured by numerical scoring.

Cross-references

More practice terms in this glossary

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