What Questions are Asked in a Polygraph Test for Police?
The polygraph, also known as a lie detector test, is a widely used tool in criminal investigations to determine the accuracy of statements made by suspects or witnesses. In the context of police investigations, polygraph tests are typically used to gather information from individuals who are suspected of committing a crime or are involved in a criminal investigation. In this article, we will explore the types of questions asked in a polygraph test for police and the significance of these questions.
Types of Polygraph Tests
There are several types of polygraph tests that can be conducted, including:
- Control Questions: These are questions that are designed to elicit a response from the subject, but are not related to the investigation. Control questions are used to establish a baseline of the subject’s physiological response to lying.
- Relevant Questions: These are questions that are related to the investigation and are designed to elicit information from the subject.
- Irrelevant Questions: These are questions that are not related to the investigation and are used to distract the subject and reduce anxiety.
- Comparison Questions: These are questions that are similar to relevant questions, but are not directly related to the investigation. Comparison questions are used to compare the subject’s physiological response to different types of questions.
What Questions are Asked in a Polygraph Test?
The specific questions asked in a polygraph test can vary depending on the investigation and the goals of the test. However, there are some common themes and types of questions that are typically asked. Here are some examples:
- Background Questions: These are questions that are designed to establish the subject’s identity, occupation, and personal history. Examples of background questions might include:
- What is your name?
- What is your occupation?
- Have you ever been arrested?
- Investigation-Specific Questions: These are questions that are designed to gather information about the investigation. Examples of investigation-specific questions might include:
- Did you commit the crime?
- Did you see or hear anything suspicious on the night of the crime?
- Do you know anyone who might have committed the crime?
- Behavioral Questions: These are questions that are designed to assess the subject’s behavior and motivations. Examples of behavioral questions might include:
- Have you ever lied to anyone?
- Have you ever stolen something?
- Do you have any secrets that you are keeping from others?
Table: Examples of Polygraph Test Questions
| Question Type | Examples of Questions |
|---|---|
| Background Questions | What is your name? What is your occupation? Have you ever been arrested? |
| Investigation-Specific Questions | Did you commit the crime? Did you see or hear anything suspicious on the night of the crime? Do you know anyone who might have committed the crime? |
| Behavioral Questions | Have you ever lied to anyone? Have you ever stolen something? Do you have any secrets that you are keeping from others? |
Significance of Polygraph Test Questions
The questions asked in a polygraph test are significant because they can help to:
- Establish Credibility: By asking background questions, the examiner can establish the subject’s credibility and determine whether the subject is telling the truth.
- Gather Information: By asking investigation-specific questions, the examiner can gather information about the investigation and determine whether the subject is involved in the crime.
- Assess Behavior: By asking behavioral questions, the examiner can assess the subject’s behavior and motivations and determine whether the subject is being truthful.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the polygraph test is a powerful tool that can be used to gather information and establish the credibility of a suspect or witness. The types of questions asked in a polygraph test can vary depending on the investigation, but common themes and types of questions include background, investigation-specific, and behavioral questions. By understanding what questions are asked in a polygraph test, police investigators can better use this tool to gather information and solve crimes.
