Will a Polygraph Examiner Tell You If You Failed?
The question of whether a polygraph examiner will tell you if you failed is a complex one, and the answer isn't a simple yes or no. The truth is more nuanced, and depends on several factors, including the examiner's policies, the context of the test, and even the jurisdiction. Let's break down the various perspectives.
What is a Polygraph Test?
Before diving into the question, it's crucial to understand what a polygraph test is and what it measures. A polygraph, often called a lie detector test, measures physiological responses like heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and skin conductivity while you answer a series of questions. The assumption is that deceptive answers will produce different physiological responses compared to truthful ones. It's important to note that polygraph tests are not universally accepted as foolproof indicators of truthfulness and are not admissible as evidence in many courts.
Will the Examiner Directly Tell You "You Failed"?
Many examiners avoid explicitly stating "You failed" or offering a definitive pass/fail judgment. Instead, they may present their conclusions in a more ambiguous way. This could involve:
- Presenting the test results: The examiner might show you charts and graphs representing your physiological responses, explaining their interpretation. This allows you to draw your own conclusions, but often without the clear-cut "failure" label.
- Discussing areas of concern: Instead of a direct pass/fail, the examiner might highlight specific questions where your physiological responses were deemed inconsistent with truthful answers. They may then encourage you to provide further clarification or details.
- Suggesting further investigation: If the results are inconclusive or show potential deception, the examiner might recommend further testing or interviews. This avoids a direct accusation of lying but signals a lack of confidence in your honesty.
- Offering an inconclusive result: In some cases, the examiner may conclude that the test results are inconclusive, meaning they can't definitively determine whether you were truthful or deceptive. This is a common outcome, especially in complex cases or when the subject is highly stressed.
Why the Ambiguity?
The lack of direct "failure" pronouncements stems from several factors:
- Legal implications: A direct accusation of lying can have serious legal and ethical ramifications for the examiner.
- Test limitations: Examiners are aware of the limitations of polygraph technology. Factors like stress, anxiety, and medication can affect results, leading to false positives or false negatives.
- Ethical considerations: Some examiners prioritize a more collaborative approach, focusing on understanding the situation rather than simply labeling someone a liar.
What if the Test was for Employment?
In employment contexts, the outcome might be presented differently. The employer might receive a report detailing the examiner's findings, and the employment decision will ultimately rest with the employer. You might not receive a direct "failure" statement from the examiner, but the lack of employment offer might speak volumes.
Is it Possible to Determine if the Test Was Passed or Failed Indirectly?
While the examiner may avoid a direct "failure" declaration, their demeanor and the way they present the results can sometimes indirectly suggest the outcome. For example, a change in tone, increased questioning, or the mention of further investigation could all indicate that the results were not favorable.
What are the Potential Consequences of Failing a Polygraph Test?
The consequences of failing a polygraph test can vary widely depending on the context. In some cases, it could lead to job loss, legal repercussions, or damaged relationships. However, as mentioned before, the validity and admissibility of these tests are often questioned.
In conclusion, while a polygraph examiner might not directly tell you that you "failed," the presentation of results, coupled with their demeanor and the subsequent actions taken, often implicitly conveys the outcome. The lack of explicit labeling reflects both the limitations of the technology and ethical considerations. The best course of action is to be honest and open during the testing process and to seek legal counsel if the test has significant legal implications.
