Polygraph tests, commonly known as lie detector tests, are often used in various fields to detect deception. The test involves measuring physiological responses such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration to determine whether the person being tested is telling the truth or lying. Despite their widespread use, polygraph tests are not always reliable and can sometimes produce false positives or false negatives. So what happens if you fail the polygraph test?
The consequences of failing a polygraph test can vary depending on the situation and the reason for the test. In some cases, failing a polygraph test can have serious legal and professional consequences. In other cases, failing a polygraph test may have no significant consequences at all.
Legal Consequences
In criminal investigations, polygraph tests are sometimes used to gather evidence. However, the results are generally not admissible in court as they are not considered reliable enough to prove guilt or innocence. Instead, the results of the test are often used to help investigators narrow down their list of suspects or gather more evidence.
If you fail a polygraph test during a criminal investigation, the consequences might be severe. Failing a polygraph test may cause investigators to focus more closely on you as a suspect. They may also use the test results to obtain search warrants or other evidence that could be used against you in court.
In some cases, failing a polygraph test may even result in criminal charges. For example, if you are suspected of committing a crime, the police may use that as evidence to charge you with the crime. However, it is essential to note that polygraph test results are not always accurate and can be influenced by several factors, including anxiety, stress, and even the skill of the person administering the test.
Professional Consequences
In addition to legal consequences, failing a polygraph test can also have professional consequences. Many employers use polygraph tests as part of their hiring process or to investigate workplace misconduct. If you fail a polygraph test during a job interview, the employer may decide not to hire you based on the test results.
If you fail a polygraph test during an investigation into workplace misconduct, you may face disciplinary action or even termination from your job. For example, if you are suspected of stealing from your employer, you may be fired for theft even if there is no other evidence against you.
It is worth noting that some professions are more likely to use polygraph tests than others. For example, federal government employees, including law enforcement officers and intelligence agents, may be required to undergo polygraph tests as part of their employment. If you fail a polygraph test in one of these professions, the consequences can be severe and could even result in the loss of your job.
Psychological Consequences
Failing a polygraph test can have psychological consequences, even without legal or professional consequences. Failing a polygraph test can be a humiliating experience, and the stigma of being labeled a liar can be challenging to shake. This can be particularly true if you know you were telling the truth and still failed the test.
In some cases, failing a polygraph test can also hurt your relationships. For example, in a partnership or marriage, your partner may be less likely to trust you. This can lead to feelings of isolation, mistrust, and even depression.
False positives and false negatives
It is important to note that polygraph tests are not always accurate. Studies have shown that polygraph tests can produce false positives (indicating that someone is lying when telling the truth) and false negatives on some occasions, but if this is your case, there are ways to appeal the results.