NORCAL POLYGRAPH

WHAT IS A POLYGRAPH?      

The term "POLYGRAPH" literally means "many writings". The name refers to the manner in which selected physiological activities are simultaneously recorded. It is important to understand what a polygraph examination entails. A polygraph instrument will collect sensitive data from at least three systems in the human body. Cponvoluted ruber tubes that are place over the examinee's chest and abdominal area will record respiratory activity. Two small metal plates, attached to the finger tips will record sweat gland activity, and a blood pressure cuff (or similar device) will record cardiovascular activity. A typical polygraph examination will include a period referred to as pre-test, a chart collection phase and a test data analysis phase. In the pre-test, the polygraph examiner will complete required paperwork and talk with examinee about the relavant reasons for the test. During this period, the examiner will discuss and formulate the questions to be asked and familiarie the examinee withh the testing procedure. During the cart collection phase, the examiner will administer and collect a number polygraph charts by asking the question set formulated an associated with the relavancy of the test. Following this, the examiner will analyze the charts and render a professional opinion ast to the truthfulness of the person taking the test. The examiner, when appropriate, will offer the examinee and opportunity to explain pysiological responses in relation to one or more questions asked duringt the test. It is important to note that  a POLYGRAPH does not include the analysis of physiology associated with the voice! WARNING: Instruments that claim to record VOICE STRESS are not POLYGRAPH INSTRUMENTS and have not been proven accurate and DO NOT have scientific support.