The Truth Behind Polygraph Tests: Are They Really Reliable?
By Ashley Mazerolle, Marketing –
Polygraph tests have been a cornerstone in lie detection for decades, but emerging technologies like EyeDetect™ promise a more accurate future.
Polygraph tests, commonly known as lie detector exams, have been used for decades to determine the truthfulness of individuals. Some employers require prospective employees to take the test to determine their eligibility for employment, while law enforcement officials use it to help decide the verdict of ongoing cases. Despite their widespread use, the idea of being hooked up to a machine and answering questions under pressure can be a frightening experience for many.
What Does a Polygraph Exam Entail?
A polygraph is a device that monitors a person’s respiratory, cardiovascular, and sweat gland activity. During the test, the examiner asks questions, and the computer determines if the examinee is telling the truth by analyzing their physiological responses. Essentially, a polygraph measures a person’s emotional response to questioning.
To ensure consistency, the examiner asks the same questions three times during the interrogation. If the examinee tells the truth, they are typically more relaxed, and their answers come naturally. Conversely, if the examinee is lying, the stress of fabricating and remembering a false response causes the chart to fluctuate more dramatically.
Critics Doubt Results
Critics argue that polygraph tests are not entirely reliable because they measure emotional responses rather than concealed knowledge. Test anxiety can induce stress in an innocent person, leading to rapid heartbeats or sweaty palms, which can jeopardize their credibility. Additionally, deceptive individuals can learn techniques to remain calm and collected, effectively cheating the exam.
Despite these criticisms, polygraph tests can still be useful in certain situations. However, many judges will not consider the results unless both sides of a case agree to their use. This skepticism has led to the search for more accurate lie detection technologies.
The Future of Lie Detection
An emerging technology, EyeDetect™, may offer a more accurate alternative to the polygraph test. EyeDetect™ uses a series of true-false questions but monitors eye behavior rather than bio-signals like heart rate and respiration. With an average accuracy rate of 85 percent, EyeDetect™ has the potential to replace polygraph tests entirely in the years to come.
While polygraph tests have played a significant role in lie detection for decades, their reliability is increasingly questioned. As new technologies like EyeDetect™ emerge, we may soon have more accurate and less stressful ways to determine the truth.
Photo by: National Cancer Institute
