Polygraph test also called lie detector test and has been the part of debate for many years. Though some people consider it valuable in investigations of criminal while some are doubtful about the reliability and application of this test.
This blog is about the polygraph examiner in Oklahoma who will explore the pros and cons of this test to provide the right perspective!
What are the Basics of Polygraph Testing?
You need to know what polygraph testing is before diving into the pros and cons. A polygraph is used to measure physiological responses such as skin conductivity, heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration, and the subject is asked to answer all questions. The thing is that wrong answers produce a different physiological reaction than trustful responses. So, the polygraph examiner has to determine the chances of deception.
The Pros of Lie Detector Tests
1. Useful Investigative Tool
The main benefit of using this test is that it can help in crime investigation. So law enforcement agencies prefer to use this test for information gathering and narrowing suspects. Also the test allow people to provide right details.
2. Pre-Employment Screening
Most of agencies such as law enforcement, national security and private security use this test for pre-employment screening. This test can identify individuals with dishonesty, drug use and bad behavior history that may be unsuitable for the job.
3. Risk Management
Polygraph tests are useful in managing the risk in different settings. Companies can use this valuable test to investigate internal thefts, misconduct, and fraud. By identifying the disloyal workers, companies can take the right actions to reduce the risk and maintain a loyal environment.
4. Providing Leads
Though polygraph tests are not admissible in court, they can provide insights and leads during the investigative process. So, this information is useful for investigators to move towards a new witness and evidence, which helps in case solving.
5. Deterrent Effect
The best benefit of a polygraph test is that it serves as a deterrent against disloyal behavior. People who are aware of the polygraph test are less likely to take part in wrong actions, so it can promote integrity and honesty.
The Cons of Lie Detector Tests
1. Questionable Reliability
The major drawback of polygraph test is the questionable reliability. Though supporters of this test say that it is the valuable and accurate test but the physiological responses may be affected by different factors such as medical issue, anxiety and stress. Wrong negatives and positives occur which may cause wrong results.
2. Ethical Concerns
There are many ethical concerns regarding this test, which indicates that it is an invasive test and harms the privacy and autonomy of individuals. Moreover, polygraph test creates anxiety and pressure, which is physiologically distressing for the subject.
3. Limited Admissibility in Court
In many courts, this test is not allowed because of less reliability. Due to this limitation of the use of polygraph tests in legal cases, it is just an investigative tool instead of the right way of establishing truth.
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Conclusion:
It is revealed that polygraph tests offer pros and cons, which is a long debate. The seasonal polygraph expert in Oklahoma defines this as a valuable test for screening, risk management, and investigation. However, there are limited reliability, accessibility, and ethical concerns for this test, which must be highlighted for balanced use. There is a high risk of misuse of polygraph tests. Non-professional examiners and wrong declaration of responses may cause wrong allegations and pressure on innocent people. So, be sure to hire a trained examiner for the polygraph test to reduce the risk!
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