112 Reliable Witnesses (Polygraph) Quiz

Which physiological (or body function) change is NOT typically measured by a polygraph test?

• Blood pressure

• Respiratory rate

• Skin conductance

• Body temperature

What was the primary purpose of the experiment you performed in this activity to test polygraph validity?

• To prove that polygraphs are always accurate

• To identify potential sources of error in polygraph tests

• To determine the best questions to ask during a polygraph

• To train polygraph examiners

Which of the following is a limitation of polygraph tests?

• They can only detect lies about serious crimes

• They are inadmissible in all court cases

• They can be affected by the subject's anxiety or nervousness

• They require subjects to be under the influence of truth serum

In evaluating polygraph data, which of the following would be considered a sign of potential deception?

• Lowering of respiratory rate (breaths per minute)

• Consistent skin conductance (related to sweating)

• Significant increase in heart rate

• Normal blood pressure readings

What is a common criticism of using polygraph tests in criminal investigations?

• They are too expensive to administer

• They can produce false positives or false negatives

• They take too long to complete

• They can only be used on adults