Lie detection

Lie detecting experiments started in the beginning of the last century. Starting from the elementary instruments, nowadays 4-channel equipments are in use – checking changes of blood pressure, pulse, breathing and the electric conductivity of the skin – and the results of computerized analyses of these are considered reliable.

In Hungary, polygraph tests are voluntary; there are strict stipulations and requirements of conducting them. Only a well-trained psychologist can be in charge of the examination, the set of questions is discussed in advance; there is no sudden, unexpected question or threat. Important issues are placed among neutral questions, but the subject of the examination knows in advance when the marked questions get asked.

Lie detection is suitable to detect and prove the perpetration of economic data and secrecy infringements or marital infidelity. The reliability of these examinations can be considered 95-96 per cent; only a person who has received special training can deceive the several hours’ long examination.

Besides the primary oral evaluation, we attach an expert’s opinion in writing about the examination. The polygraph lie detection and any evidence acquired through it can be freely used or rejected based on the discretion of the court.