PRE-POLYGRAPH INTERVIEW

A typical polygraph examination will include a period referred to as a pre-polygraph interview, a chart collection phase, and a test data analysis phase. In the pre-polygraph interview, the examiner will complete required paperwork and talk with the examinee about the test. During this period, the examiner will discuss the questions to be asked and familiarize the examinee with the testing procedure.

CHART COLLECTION PHASE

During this phase, the examiner will administer and collect a number of polygraph charts. He or she will analyze the charts and render an opinion as to the truthfulness of the person taking the test. The examiner, when appropriate, will offer the examinee an opportunity to explain physiological responses in relation to one or more questions asked during the test. It is important to note that a polygraph does not include the analysis of physiology associated with the voice. Instruments that claim to record voice stress are not polygraphs and have not been shown to have scientific support. (Note: All phases of the polygraph examination can take anywhere from an hour and a half to two hours.)