Lie Detector Basics: What People with Disabilities Should Know Before a Test

Given that polygraph tests, otherwise called lie detector test, are being adopted as tools for law enforcement, employment screening, and legal examination, adherence to procedural fairness and inclusiveness are even more important.

Polygraphs measure autonomic bodily responses, like heart rate, blood pressure, respirations, and electrodermal activity, in order to assess the truthfulness of the subject’s responses.

For any individual, regardless of whether they have a physical, neurological, or psychological disability, involuntary reactions to questions can be atypical or impacted by their medical conditions, and therefore, their results are harder to discern.

In generic testing protocols, these variations might not be taken into account, resulting in inaccurate results or procedural bias. For example, an individual with a disability might have difficulties with sensor placement, may experience trouble being attentive for an extended duration, or may have problems with cognitive processing of instructions.

Hence, it is important for both the examinees and examiners to be mindful of how disability is accommodated during the polygraph process. For people with disabilities to be treated fairly in a testing environment, it is paramount that they understand their rights and any accommodations that may be made during the testing process.

Common Concerns for Individuals with Disabilities

The polygraph results heavily rely on accurate physiological readings, and certain disabilities or medical conditions may influence those readings.

Some physical disabilities, such as amputation, muscular disorders, or limited mobility, may complicate the placement of the sensors, thereby undermining the accuracy of the test results.

Neurological complications, such as epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or a complication in the autonomic nervous system, often have irregular physiological responses. Due to these irregularities, autonomic responses may be random or unpredictable, producing inconclusive results.

Because of these reasons, examinees need to inform the examiner about any medical conditions or medications they are on before the test. This helps the examiner make proper adjustments and documentation to keep the test fair and accurate.

Accommodations and Adjustments

To make sure tests are accurate and fair, polygraph examiners can provide reasonable accommodations depending on an examinee’s disability:

Visually Impaired: The test is conducted much like it would be for a sighted person. However, assistance might be needed to read and sign consent forms.

Hearing Impaired: A signing interpreter might be required, which needs to be approved by your examiner. Also, during the data collection phase, since the examinee does not face the examiner, the interpreter will create and show flashcards for the examinee to read and respond.

Speech Impaired: The person being tested needs to answer questions. Written replies work during the pre-test interview, but for data collection, nodding or shaking the head can be used to say “yes” or “no.”

Mobility Impaired: Assistance might be required to move into the exam chair. If that cannot happen, tests can be done while the person stays in their wheelchair, though this is less ideal.

Severe Burns: If someone has major burns on their arm or hand, placing sensors on areas like the legs can work instead. Burns on other parts of the body do not cause problems with the test.

Amputations: Sensors are usually placed on the torso, arms, or fingers, but if needed, other spots, such as using a blood pressure cuff on the calf, can serve as alternatives when necessary.

Cognitive Impairments: The examiner needs to decide if the person has the cognitive ability to undergo testing. Individuals with significant mental impairments might be deemed unfit for a polygraph since it relies on “normal” cognitive function for accurate results.

Memory Impairments: To achieve dependable outcomes, the person must clearly remember what happened. Illness or injury that affects memory creates less dependable testing outcomes.

ADHD: Testing is possible for individuals with mild ADHD or those on effective medication, provided they can stay still and follow directions for up to seven minutes at a stretch.

Severe Pain: Severe pain can interfere with normal response patterns required during the test. Hence, if the pain can be minimized with medication and the medication does not impact the normal thought process, testing could be considered.

Preparing for the Test

Proper preparation ensures fair and accurate polygraph results for someone with disabilities.

Below are key steps to take.

Consult with Healthcare Providers: Speak with a healthcare provider before taking a polygraph test to understand if your health condition or any medication you take might change how your body reacts during the exam. A doctor’s advice can help figure out if the test makes sense and if any adjustments should be made.

Inform the Examiner in Advance: Be upfront and convey ahead of time about any physical, cognitive, or neurological conditions you have. This allows the examiner to decide the right approach and make any needed changes to the test.

Arrange Accommodations Early: Request help like interpreters, different sensor setups, or adjusted communication methods in advance. Planning ahead avoids complications and makes sure the testing environment is ready to suit your needs and keep things accurate.

Conclusion

Learning about how polygraph tests work is important for individuals with disabilities to ensure a fair and respectful experience. Understanding how certain conditions might influence results and requesting the necessary adjustments helps individuals defend their rights and feel more confident throughout the process.

Speaking up about your medical history and sharing important details with the examiner is essential to ensure fair and accurate testing. Open communication plays a significant role in ensuring the process is ethical and transparent.

When the examiner and examinee work collaboratively, the integrity of the process is preserved, and the individual’s needs are respected. Clear communication, proper preparation, and awareness are key to navigating a lie detector test with confidence.