Table of Contents
Introduction
Polygraph examinations, while highly effective in assessing truthfulness, sometimes yield inconclusive results. An inconclusive result occurs when the physiological data does not provide a clear indication of deception or truthfulness, leading to uncertainty about the examinee’s responses. The American Polygraph Association (APA) has established guidelines for handling inconclusive results, ensuring that these cases are managed with transparency, consistency, and professional integrity. This article explores APA standards for inconclusive outcomes, examining common causes, best practices for reporting, and strategies to minimize inconclusive findings.
1. Understanding Inconclusive Results in Polygraph Testing
What Constitutes an Inconclusive Result?
Inconclusive results indicate that the physiological data collected during a polygraph examination does not align clearly with either deceptive or truthful responses. Unlike “Deception Indicated” or “No Deception Indicated” outcomes, inconclusive results are neither a positive nor a negative finding; rather, they reflect a lack of sufficient evidence to make a definitive assessment.
Why Inconclusive Results Occur
Several factors can contribute to inconclusive results in a polygraph examination:
- Examinee Anxiety or Stress: High levels of anxiety or nervousness can lead to physiological responses that make it difficult to discern genuine reactions to test questions.
- Medical or Psychological Conditions: Conditions such as heart issues, anxiety disorders, or the effects of medication can influence physiological responses, complicating data interpretation.
- Environmental or Testing Disruptions: External noise, distractions, or equipment malfunctions can interfere with data quality, increasing the likelihood of an inconclusive outcome.
- Insufficient Baseline Data: If the examinee’s baseline responses are inconsistent or unclear, it may hinder the examiner’s ability to identify deviations during test-relevant questions.
By understanding the causes of inconclusive results, examiners can better address these factors during testing and minimize their impact on the outcome.
2. APA Standards for Reporting Inconclusive Results
Maintaining Transparency
APA guidelines emphasize that examiners should report inconclusive results with full transparency, explaining that the data does not provide a definitive answer regarding the examinee’s truthfulness. This transparency helps avoid misinterpretation and sets realistic expectations for stakeholders, ensuring they understand the limitations of the findings.
Categorical Terminology
To maintain clarity, examiners are required to use standardized terminology when reporting inconclusive results. APA-recommended terms include “Inconclusive” or “No Opinion,” which signal that a definitive assessment is not possible based on the available data. By using these terms, examiners provide a clear, unbiased description of the results, supporting stakeholders in making informed decisions.
Documenting Possible Causes
When reporting an inconclusive result, examiners should document any factors that may have contributed to the uncertainty. For example, if the examinee showed signs of extreme anxiety or reported taking medication that could affect physiological responses, these observations should be included in the report. This context allows reviewers to understand potential influences on the data and assess the reliability of the inconclusive outcome.
3. Strategies to Minimize Inconclusive Results
Conducting a Thorough Pretest Interview
A comprehensive pretest interview can help identify factors that might lead to inconclusive results. During this phase, examiners should inquire about the examinee’s medical history, psychological state, and any medications they may be taking. This information allows the examiner to make adjustments, such as scheduling the test for a time when the examinee is less anxious or pausing to clarify any instructions that could reduce stress.
Building Examinee Comfort and Cooperation
Building rapport with the examinee can reduce anxiety, improving the likelihood of obtaining conclusive results. By explaining each phase of the test, reviewing questions, and ensuring the examinee feels comfortable, the examiner can help alleviate apprehension and produce clearer, more reliable data.
Creating an Optimal Testing Environment
External distractions or uncomfortable testing conditions can increase the risk of inconclusive results. APA standards recommend that polygraph exams be conducted in a quiet, comfortable room where the examinee can focus without interruptions. Additionally, ensuring that equipment is properly calibrated and functional minimizes the risk of technical issues impacting data quality.
Adjusting Equipment and Technique as Needed
If the examiner suspects that inconclusive results may arise from equipment sensitivity or calibration, they can make adjustments before or during the examination. For example, changing the settings to account for the examinee’s unique physiological characteristics, such as high heart rate, can help provide more accurate readings and reduce inconclusive outcomes.
4. Handling Inconclusive Results Ethically
Avoiding Assumptions or Speculation
When reporting inconclusive results, examiners should avoid making speculative statements or attempting to infer conclusions that are not supported by the data. APA guidelines stress the importance of reporting only what the data indicates, without assuming or implying truthfulness or deception based on inconclusive outcomes.
Providing Recommendations for Next Steps
In cases where inconclusive results occur, examiners may recommend additional steps to obtain more definitive information. For instance, the examiner might suggest a follow-up examination after a set period, particularly if external factors like high anxiety or health issues influenced the initial test. This approach ensures that stakeholders have options to pursue clarification while respecting the limitations of the initial findings.
5. The Role of Follow-Up Testing in Inconclusive Cases
Conducting a Second Examination
In situations where inconclusive results were affected by temporary factors, a second examination can often provide more conclusive data. For example, if an examinee’s stress levels were unusually high during the first test, scheduling a follow-up test after a period of rest may yield clearer physiological responses.
Modifying the Testing Approach
If an initial examination results in an inconclusive outcome, the examiner may consider modifying their approach for a follow-up test. This can include adjusting question phrasing, changing the sequence of questions, or even using a different validated polygraph technique that may better suit the examinee’s physiological profile. These adjustments help maximize the likelihood of obtaining useful data while respecting ethical standards.
Documenting Follow-Up Procedures
When conducting a follow-up examination, examiners should thoroughly document all adjustments made to the testing procedure and note the reasons for these changes. This documentation provides transparency, allowing stakeholders to understand the rationale for follow-up testing and how it may impact the interpretation of results.
6. Educating Stakeholders on the Meaning of Inconclusive Results
Setting Clear Expectations
Inconclusive results can sometimes be misinterpreted by clients, investigators, or legal professionals. To prevent misunderstandings, examiners should clearly explain that an inconclusive result does not indicate deception or truthfulness but rather an inability to reach a definitive conclusion. Setting realistic expectations helps stakeholders interpret the outcome within the context of the test’s limitations.
Providing Context for Future Examinations
When inconclusive results occur, it may be helpful to provide guidance on how future polygraph examinations could produce more reliable outcomes. For example, informing clients about factors that contribute to inconclusive results can help them create conditions more conducive to a conclusive test in the future, such as encouraging examinees to reduce stress or avoid certain medications prior to testing.
Conclusion
Inconclusive results are an inherent part of polygraph testing, arising from various factors that can interfere with the clarity of physiological data. By adhering to APA standards, examiners can handle inconclusive outcomes professionally and ethically, ensuring transparent reporting and providing recommendations for potential next steps. Through thorough preparation, supportive rapport, and precise documentation, polygraph examiners uphold the integrity of their practice and offer stakeholders a clear understanding of inconclusive results. Following these guidelines not only improves the reliability of polygraph examinations but also reinforces trust in the examiner’s expertise and adherence to best practices.
