AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -There have been several reviews of polygraph accuracy. They suggest that polygraphs are accurate between 80% and 90% of the time. This means polygraphs are far from foolproof, but better than the average person’s ability to spot lies, which research suggests they can do around 55% of the time.

Detailed explanation-2: -During intense emotional states such as surprise, fear, anger and pain, sympathetic nerves are activated. From polygraph charts a trained examiner can identify whether or not a particular question stimulated sympathetic arousal. As can be seen, the polygraph instrument itself plays a minor role in detecting deception.

Detailed explanation-3: -Research has shown that the accuracy of the latest computerised polygraph testing techniques is 98%. There are several key qualities that are important in order to achieve this level of accuracy.

Detailed explanation-4: -A polygraph, often incorrectly referred to as a lie detector test, is a device or procedure that measures and records several physiological indicators such as blood pressure, pulse, respiration, and skin conductivity while a person is asked and answers a series of questions.