Polygraph Essay

Words: 2236
Pages: 9

Polygraph The polygraph test is one of the most controversial criminal investigative techniques of all-time. From the initial years of the invention to today, there is not a consensus about the investigative tool. That is why there are many people for and against the administration of polygraph tests. Therefore, in order to develop a clear picture of the polygraph test the history of the test must be established. Although, there are many sources that have well documented concerns about the invention, the polygraph test is still around after almost 80 years.
William M. Marston invented the first lie detector around 1917. He claimed to be able to detect verbal deception by using a machine to measure an increase in systolic blood
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However, what the suspect does not no is that the examiner knew from the beginning what card he chose, and the real test was to establish doubt in the mind of the suspect. After this method is completed the actual questioning begins. The process of questioning which Keeler is in favor of is the process called irrelevant or relevant questioning. This process does not attack the suspect by continually questioning the veracity of the suspect, but it changes speeds by asking both relevant and irrelevant question to the suspect. (Crime Library) This process by Keeler helps maintain the subjects state of mind from becoming angered and frustrated. As mentioned before, a polygraph test can be very emotionally draining for some, so in order to get the most conclusive result as possible it is important to keep the suspect as comfortable as possible. This does not suggest to let the suspect off the hook, but realize that a positive result on the polygraph test is what is needed, not inconclusive.
Although Keller's, Inbau's and Reid's process of interrogation of using the polygraph is widely used and accepted there are many detractors to it implication. The detractors for the use of the polygraph have devolved some reasons why the polygraph violates the rights of the alleged suspects. The first example of how a polygraph might be used improperly is in the case of a false confession. (Crime library) Many times people admit to crimes that they really have no claim to and only