Polygraph Glossary Technique

time bar

Definition

A time bar restricts a Comparison Question to exclude the time period of the incident under investigation (e.g., \"Before age 25, did you ever...\"). Research has not supported the hypothesis that exclusive questions improve accuracy over non-exclusive versions. See also: category bar, place bar.

What Is a Time Bar?

A time bar restricts a Comparison Question to exclude the time period of the incident under investigation (e.g., "Before age 25, did you ever..."). Research has not supported the hypothesis that exclusive questions improve accuracy over non-exclusive versions. See also: category bar, place bar.

Significance in PDD

This concept is part of the theoretical and practical framework supporting psychophysiological detection of deception. Understanding it helps practitioners, researchers, and informed consumers appreciate the scientific foundations of modern polygraph testing and the ongoing refinement of techniques and methods based on empirical research.

Context in Modern Practice

In contemporary validated practice, all aspects of the polygraph examination — from question formulation to scoring methodology — are governed by the APA Standards of Practice. These standards ensure that examinations are conducted using validated techniques, that diagnostic opinions are based on structured test data analysis, and that the rights and welfare of examinees are protected throughout the process.

Cross-references

More technique terms in this glossary

instant offense examination An instant offense examination is a form of PCSOT conducted when a subject denies the offense or a significant elemen... TESTest for Espionage and Sabotage A screening polygraph format specifically designed for counterintelligence testing, addressing espionage and sabotage... British One-issue Screening Test The British One-issue Screening Test (BOST) is a polygraph format developed as a variation of the Air Force Modified ... Yes-No Technique The Yes-No Technique, first reported by Richard Golden (1969), is similar to the Positive Control Technique. Each que... double verification test The double verification test is an alternate term for the card test. See: stimulation test. primary track The primary track is one of the tracks in the Quadri-Track Zone Comparison Technique, containing a Relevant Question ...

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