Contact Information for the Current Officers of the Tennesse Polygraph Association. Contact us with any questions about the TPA.
Jeff White
jawhite86@yahoo.com
Scott Jones
osj515@gmail.com
Listing of upcoming meetings or training opportunities sponsored by the Tennessee Polygraph Association or other related organizations.
Dates
March 17 - 20, 2025
This seminar will be located at the LeConte Hotel in Pigeon Forge, TN, and it will provide 32 hours of continuing education credits.
What is a Polygraph?
Who is a Polygraph Examiner?
How does a Polygraph work?
What does the Polygraph record?
Does a polygraph detect lies?
Can an employer use a polygraph to test an employee suspected of causing an economic loss?
How accurate is a polygraph?
How many questions may be asked?
Will I know what questions are on the test?
Can I be forced to take a polygraph exam?
How long does a polygraph exam take?
Should I stop taking my medication before the test?
Choosing a Polygraphist
A polygraph is a device that makes a permanent recording of various physiological changes taking place within the body of the test subject as a result of certain psychological stimuli.
A person who purports to be able to detect deception or verify the truth of statements through the use of instrumentation or by the means of mechanical devise; and has graduated from an American Polygraph Association approved basic polygraph examiner course of instruction or approved by the Tennessee Polygraph Commission.
The polygraph records physiological responses of an individual attached to a polygraph instrument.
A polygraph records, breathing, heart rate, blood pressure and galvanic skin resistance.
No, a polygraph records physiological responses through series of questions presented to an individual by a qualified polygraph examiner using a validated testing format. The epoligrapher is then able to examine the chart data and render a diagnostic opinion as to the veracity of the subject being tested.
Yes, if the employer has reasonable suspicion. The employer must be able to articulate the reasonable suspicion, and reduce it to writing, access alone does not constitute reasonable suspicion. Additional information can be found in the Federal Register/Vol. 53, No. 204 / Friday, October 21, 1988 Rules and Regulations pages 41497 through 41510 (Employee Polygraph Protection Act). An employer may not take any personnel action based solely upon the results of a polygraph examination.
The American Polygraph Association says the polygraph is 85% to 95% for specific issue investigations. There are studies on record that suggest polygraph is even more accurate.
Question numbers are determined by the format being utilized by the examiner.
Yes, all questions are reviewed with the examinee prior to any polygraph testing. Each question requires an answer of either “Yes” or “No”.
No, polygraph exams are always voluntary.
A polygraph test is a three phase test; the pre test, chart collection phase, and the post test. Examinations require a minimum of sixty minutes, but often take longer.
No.
In the state of Tennessee, there are literally hundreds of persons who offer lie detection services and choosing one can be very difficult. The best way to determine the polygraphists' credibility is to assess their reputation in the area where they do business. Obtain the services of a polygraphist who will render an objective opinion and who is respected for this ability.
The following are some things to look for when engaging the services of a qualified polygraphist.
Do not get caught up in the myth that cheapest is always best. It takes a great deal of time and effort to properly conduct a polygraph examination. Prices will vary, but just remember you usually will get what you pay for.
Reputation, education, certification, membership and credibility are the key elements in the selection an expert polygraphist.