Duane Roberts 
While polygraph testing remains controversial, with accuracy rates debated, the underlying physiological principles that the test relies on are quite interesting. When someone lies, their physiological state is altered by the stress of that deception. These changes arise from activating the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions like breathing, heartbeat, and perspiration. Lying triggers increased activity in the sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system. It is known as the “fight or flight” response, as the body prepares to respond to a perceived threat. Sympathetic activation leads to several measurable bodily changes.
- Cardiovascular effects – Heart rate and blood pressure increase as the body anticipates potential action.
- Electrodermal activity – Sweat gland activity increases, particularly on the palms and soles of the feet. It increases skin conductivity, which allows detection by the polygraph sensor pads.
- Muscular tension – Stress hormone release causes the skeletal muscles throughout the body to tense up. It includes tightened contraction of sphincter muscles.
Polygraph methodology
During a polygraph test, sensors are placed on the body to measure and record the critical physiological responses.
- Respiration – Movement sensors around the chest and abdomen track breathing rate and depth.
- Cardiovascular activity – A blood pressure cuff monitors blood pressure while electrodes on the fingers record heart rate.
- Electrodermal activity – Sensor pads are placed on the palms or fingertips to gauge changes in skin conductivity related to sweating.
- Muscular tension – Some polygraphs measure the contraction of sphincter muscles through sensor pads placed on the seat or armrest of the polygraph chair.
A typical polygraph test consists of short yes/no questions with the subject connected to the sensor array. Control questions with known responses establish a physiological baseline. Subsequently, critical questions related to the investigation are asked, with the expectation that lies will provoke measurable physiological reactions. By comparing the magnitude of reaction to control and critical questions, the polygraph examiner makes inferences about the likelihood of deception. Reactions are also assessed holistically across the different physiological measures.
Limitations and criticisms
While the underlying physiology is sound, the application of the lie detector test floridaremains highly controversial. Reliability depends heavily on the examiner’s skill in question formation and data interpretation. Some critics argue that polygraphs measure stress and anxiety rather than deception per se. Unsuitable candidates like the mentally ill, psychopaths, or trained countermeasures agents may not exhibit expected physiological responses to lying.
False positive and false negative results are common, with estimated accuracy rates often only slightly better than random chance. The polygraph test is susceptible to countermeasures, and its administration and scoring are not standardized. Critics argue the tests should not be admitted as evidence. Proponents argue polygraphs remain a useful investigative tool when used carefully by a skilled examiner. While not definitive, physiological measurements provide additional insight alongside other evidence. Supporters say the polygraph deters criminals from lying and encourages confessions when deception seems apparent.