Polygraph Description

A polygraph test, commonly referred to as a lie detector test, is a procedure designed to measure and record physiological responses such as blood pressure, pulse, respiration, and skin conductivity while the person being tested answers a series of questions. The underlying theory is that deceptive answers will produce physiological responses that can be differentiated from those associated with non-deceptive answers.

Here’s what the person being tested can expect during a polygraph test:

• Pre-Test Interview: The examiner begins with a pre-test interview to explain the process, discuss the test questions, and establish a baseline for the person’s physiological responses. This helps the person understand what to expect and reduces anxiety.
• Questioning Phase: During the actual testing phase, the person will answer a series of questions. These include 'control' questions (to which the answer is known), 'relevant' questions (related to the matter under investigation), and 'irrelevant' questions (neutral in nature). The person’s physiological responses are continuously monitored and recorded.
• Data Analysis: After the questioning is complete, the examiner analyzes the data to determine if the physiological responses during the relevant questions deviated significantly from responses to control and irrelevant questions.
• Post-Test Phase: Finally, the examiner may discuss the results with the person tested, depending on the agreed-upon conditions.

We test mainly in the southern half of Wisconsin usually from Milwaukee to Kenosha to Beloit to Madison to Tomah to Green Bay to Sheboygan.  Other cities will be considered depending on my schedule.  We will arrange for a testing room in your area and the actual testing will take between one and two hours.