Testing Procedures Flashcards
7 cards from real CPE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Testing Procedures flashcards as text
What is the function of the 'norm question' used in some structured polygraph formats?
Answer: To establish a physiological norm by asking a question the examinee is expected to answer truthfully without concern
A norm question elicits a truthful response on a non-threatening topic, establishing a physiological baseline to which responses on comparison and relevant questions can be compared.
During chart scoring using the seven-position scale (–3 to +3), what does a score of 0 assigned to a question indicate?
Answer: There is no scorable difference in the physiological tracing between that question and the comparison question
A score of 0 on the seven-position scale indicates that no significant physiological difference was detected between the relevant and comparison question at that component, contributing to an inconclusive result if prevalent.
What is the correct polygraph examiner response when an examinee discloses a significant new admission during the post-test interview?
Answer: Document the admission, advise the examinee of rights if applicable, and follow jurisdiction-specific protocol for reporting
Post-test admissions must be carefully documented, and the examiner must follow applicable legal and agency protocols regarding rights advisements and reporting requirements.
What physiological component is recorded by the pneumograph in a polygraph examination?
Answer: Thoracic and/or abdominal respiration patterns
The pneumograph records respiratory activity by measuring chest and/or abdominal expansion and contraction, capturing respiration rate, depth, and pattern changes.
When using computerized polygraph systems, what is the role of the algorithm during chart analysis?
Answer: It provides a numerical decision support score based on feature extraction, which the examiner uses alongside human judgment
Computerized algorithms extract physiological features and generate a numerical score to support examiner decision-making, but the final determination remains the responsibility of the certified examiner.
What is the recommended practice when an examinee shows consistent 'no reaction' (flat-line) tracings across all questions in a polygraph chart?
Answer: Investigate potential countermeasures, medication effects, or sensor placement issues before continuing
Flat-line or globally suppressed tracings may indicate deliberate countermeasures, pharmacological suppression, or equipment problems, all of which must be investigated before interpreting or continuing the examination.
In a standardized polygraph test format, what is the maximum recommended number of questions per chart to maintain physiological validity?
Answer: 10 questions
Most validated polygraph formats recommend no more than 10 questions per chart to ensure examinees can respond distinctly to each question without habituation or physiological fatigue.