Polygraph testing, commonly known as lie detector testing, plays a crucial role in investigative and risk management processes. It serves to enhance decision-making by providing additional information that might not be otherwise accessible. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for polygraph testing. This article explores the criteria that determine an individual’s suitability for undergoing a polygraph examination, ensuring that the process is both effective and ethically sound.
Table of Contents
The Purpose of Polygraph Testing
Polygraph tests are used to support decisions in investigations, candidate screenings, risk assessments, and risk management activities. The primary goals include:
- Increased disclosure of information: Encouraging examinees to provide more comprehensive and truthful information.
- Deterrence of problem behaviors: Discouraging non-compliance or other unsuitable behaviors.
- Detection of involvement in problematic activities: Identifying whether an individual has been involved in behaviors or activities of concern.
Criteria for Suitability
To ensure that a polygraph test is beneficial and appropriate, potential examinees must meet certain criteria:
- Age and Maturity
- Minimum Age: The examinee should be at least 12 years old. More importantly, their functional maturity should match that of a youth aged 12 or older. This can be assessed using standardized psychometric tests to determine Mean Age Equivalence (MAE) or Standard Age Score (SAS).
- Cognitive Abilities
- Abstract Thinking: The individual should demonstrate adequate abstract thinking abilities, understanding the context and purpose of the polygraph examination.
- Insight: The examinee should have insight into their own and others’ motivations, being able to articulate reasons for honesty or dishonesty.
- Understanding Right from Wrong: A basic understanding of moral concepts is essential. The person should be able to distinguish between truth and lies and understand the potential consequences of dishonesty.
- Behavioral Consistency
- Orientation: The examinee should consistently know the date, time, and location, demonstrating the ability to function independently and adhere to scheduled appointments.
Conditions Precluding Suitability
Certain conditions may render an individual unsuitable for polygraph testing. These include:
- Psychosis: Active, untreated, or unmanaged psychotic conditions, including hallucinations or delusional thinking, preclude testing.
- Severe Cognitive Impairments: Individuals with severe mental retardation or an IQ below 55 are generally not suitable for polygraph testing.
- Severe Mental Health Conditions: Conditions that require continuous observation or assistance, as indicated by a DSM Axis V Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) score of 50 or less, or severe DSM Axis I disorders.
- Acute Medical Conditions: Persons suffering from acute injuries or illnesses that cause significant pain or distress should not undergo testing until their condition improves.
- Influence of Substances: Observable impairment due to the influence of non-prescribed or controlled substances, including alcohol, disqualifies an individual from testing.
Special Considerations
Examiners must be sensitive to any medical, mental health, or developmental issues that could affect the quality of the polygraph data or the examinee’s well-being. Specific considerations include:
- Medical Conditions: Chronic conditions should be noted in the examination report, and testing should be postponed if the examinee’s health is unstable.
- Medications: Examinees should take all prescribed medications as directed. The use of medications should be documented, and any potential effects on test results should be considered.
- Pregnancy: Testing suitability for pregnant individuals should be determined by a medical professional, with special caution for those experiencing high-risk pregnancies.
- Psychiatric Conditions: Stable psychiatric conditions may allow for testing, but active psychosis or severe psychiatric issues necessitate postponement.
- Developmental Disorders: Individuals with developmental disorders should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, ensuring that the testing will not jeopardize their health or safety.
Conclusion
Determining suitability for polygraph testing is a nuanced process that requires careful consideration of various factors, including age, cognitive abilities, behavioral consistency, and health conditions. By adhering to these guidelines, polygraph examiners and related professionals can ensure that the testing process is ethical, effective, and beneficial for both the examinee and the community. Through thoughtful assessment, polygraph testing can serve as a valuable tool in enhancing truthfulness and accountability in various investigative and risk management contexts.
