What Questions Are Asked on a Police Polygraph? Understanding the Polygraph Process
The questions asked during a police polygraph test are carefully crafted to elicit physiological responses that indicate deception. While the specific questions vary depending on the case, the general structure and types of questions remain consistent. Understanding this structure is key to understanding the entire process. Remember, the results of a polygraph are not always admissible in court.
What are the different types of questions asked during a polygraph?
Polygraph examinations typically employ three main types of questions: irrelevant, relevant, and control questions.
-
Irrelevant Questions: These are neutral questions unrelated to the crime, designed to establish a baseline of the subject's physiological responses. Examples include questions like, "Is your name John Doe?" or "Is today Tuesday?" These help the examiner assess the subject's normal physiological reactions.
-
Relevant Questions: These are the central questions directly related to the crime under investigation. They focus on the suspect's involvement or knowledge of the crime. Examples might include, "Did you shoot Mr. Smith?" or "Were you in the bank at the time of the robbery?" The examiner is looking for significant deviations from the baseline in response to these questions.
-
Control Questions: These questions are designed to be emotionally arousing, even for innocent individuals. They are broader than the relevant questions and deal with behaviors similar to the crime but not specifically related to the case at hand. Examples include, "Have you ever lied to avoid trouble?" or "Have you ever stolen anything?" The examiner compares the responses to control questions with the responses to relevant questions. A greater physiological response to the relevant questions compared to the control questions is often interpreted as indicative of deception.
How are the questions phrased to be effective?
The phrasing of questions is crucial. They are designed to be clear, concise, and unambiguous. Vague or leading questions are avoided. The examiner will often explain each question before asking it and will confirm the subject's understanding. The goal is to minimize any ambiguity that could lead to misinterpretations of physiological responses.
Are there any specific questions about my alibi or knowledge of the crime?
Specific questions regarding your alibi and knowledge of the crime will be tailored to the details of the case. The examiner will likely ask about your whereabouts at the time of the crime, your interactions with any witnesses, and anything you know about the incident. This information is often gathered during the pre-test interview. The goal is to assess consistency between your statements and evidence.
What if I'm innocent but nervous during the test?
Nervousness is a common reaction to a polygraph test, even for innocent individuals. The examiner is trained to differentiate between nervousness and deception. However, high levels of anxiety can interfere with the accuracy of the results. The examiner will attempt to alleviate anxiety through a pre-test interview and a calm, professional demeanor.
Can I refuse to answer certain questions during a police polygraph?
While you have the right to refuse to take a polygraph test altogether, you typically cannot refuse to answer individual questions once you’ve agreed to participate. However, if a question is perceived as abusive or if you feel uncomfortable, it's crucial to communicate this to the examiner.
Important Note: Polygraph results are not always reliable and are often inadmissible as evidence in court. They should be viewed as one piece of information in a larger investigation. Always consult with an attorney before agreeing to take a polygraph test.
