Polygraph tests are unique pieces of equipment that measure certain physiological features to determine whether or not a criminal is being truthful. Do you think polygraph tests should be used in modern investigations? Why or why not?
Introduction
The lie detector tests, also called the polygraph tests, are frequently advocated as a tool to scrutinize the truth, but they still remain a controversial topic and have limitations too.
These tests are meant to measure physiological indicators like heart rate, blood pressure, and sweat to match them with deception. Nevertheless, the specialists keep raising the issue concerning the scientific accuracy of these tests, and the research shows that they do not have reliable validity. Nevertheless, the specialists keep raising the issue concerning the scientific accuracy of these tests, and the research shows that they do not have reliable validity.
Polygraph for investigation
Subject to various external influences, the true reliability of polygraph exams is a point of contention. For instance, factors such as the examinee's concentration, arousal, stress, or doubt can all interfere with the reading of their facial expressions and body language.
Additionally, the observer's personal biases towards the examinee can also impact the interpretation of the results. Furthermore, differences in physiological reactions among individuals of different races and cultures can make interpreting the test results even more challenging. These factors often lead to the generation of false positive or false negative outcomes, which raises serious doubts about the accuracy of polygraph examinations.
On the other hand, the coercive character of the polygraph test part becomes deeply problematic from an ethical perspective. The accumulated uncertainty and insecurity created during the investigative proceedings, along with the inference that the penalty for wrongdoing is hanging over the heads, can force innocent individuals to declare themselves guilty in order to avert the consequences. This threatens the validity of the investigatory framework and the effectiveness of justice delivery, even if it is total.
Even though the mentioned concerns have raised questions about the reliability of polygraph tests, they are still widely used in law enforcement and occupational screening. This is the standpoint made by proponents who suggest that polygraphs cannot be objectively accurate. However, they are helpful tools when appropriately applied along with other evidence-gathering procedures. On one hand, it is imperative to be mindful of the inadequacies and possible risks in concluding their analysis, which may lead to misinterpretations.
Conclusion
Hence, polygraph tests continue to be a controversial and arguable subject of modern criminal procedures. Nevertheless, they can occasionally draw our attention to the issues of truthfulness. However, hundreds of scientific studies and numerous experts have debunked their reliability and validity. Hence, the polygraph can have a role to play in certain investigative scenes; however, its efficiency needs to be assessed critically, and alternatives to the justice administration should be pursued to make it impartial and effective.