NCJ Number
98455
Journal
Polygraph Volume: 13 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1984) Pages: 251-262
Date Published
1984
Length
12 pages
Annotation
A 20-question survey was mailed to all 100 members of the American Polygraph Association. The 41 usable responses were analyzed to assess the characteristics of preemployment polygraph screening.
Abstract
Data show that the average pretest interview was 33.5 minutes in length, and that the average examination minutes in length, and that the average examination period was 59.4 minutes. Respondents reported a very low rate of applicant test refusal (.5 percent) and noncooperation with specific areas of inquiry (.4 percent). Most polygraphers employed a deceptive/ nondeceptive rating system, as opposed to pass/fail, recommended/nonrecommended, or other scoring systems. All examiners offered applicants an opportunity to explain difficulties, and none inquired into sexual activities. Results suggest that unethical practices and invasions of privacy in the administration of pre-employment polygraph examinations may not be as pervasive as claimed by critics. The patterns of use reported by these respondents contrast strikingly with the negative image often popularized by the press. Nine references are provided. (Author abstract modified)