Polygraphy

Definition

The polygraph is a device that measures and records a variety of physiological indicators, such as blood pressure, pulse, respiration, and skin conductivity, during questioning. The name is derived from the Greek words "poly" (many) and "graphos" (writing). Essentially, you can derived the meaning of "many writing" which is rather accurate since the machine records and various physiological responses, as already mentioned.

Polygraphy is the procedure used to attempt to detect deception with the use of the polygraph instrument. This is based on the theory that deceptive answers will give readings that are markedly different from honest ones.

In some countries, this is used to interrogate criminal suspects by investigators and candidates for sensitive jobs by human resource teams.

However, it must be noted that the American Psychological Association has stated that "most psychologists agree that there is little evidence that polygraph tests can accurately detect lies." Hence, calling it a "lie detector" is rather a misnomer.

Significant Personalities in Polygraphy

Timeline of Modern Polygraphy

Function of Polygraph Result to Investigation

Polygraph tests provide governmental agencies and legal systems with a practical and simple method of extracting the truth from test subjects. These tests are used by investigative teams throughout the world. While it may not always be effective, using this method along with other investigative processes helps investigative teams ascertain the truth.