CPE Testing Procedures 3

Question 1

What is the primary advantage of the Relevant-Irrelevant (R-I) test format in screening examinations?

Accepted Answer

It allows comparison of responses to relevant questions against neutral baseline questions

Answer

The R-I format compares physiological responses to relevant questions against responses to neutral irrelevant questions, making it useful for broad-scope screening when comparison questions are impractical.

Question 2

During a polygraph examination, 'outside issue' responses are best addressed by which method?

Accepted Answer

Using a symptomatic question to absorb responses from concerns unrelated to the target issue

Answer

Symptomatic questions (e.g., 'Is there something else you are afraid I will ask about?') are designed to capture physiological responses caused by concerns outside the scope of the test.

Question 3

According to the American Polygraph Association (APA) meta-analytic research, what is the approximate accuracy rate for well-conducted polygraph examinations?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 80–90%

Answer

APA-endorsed meta-analyses have found polygraph accuracy rates in the range of approximately 80–90% when standardized techniques and validated scoring systems are used.

Question 4

What is the purpose of the 'acquaintance' or 'exploratory' test sometimes used at the beginning of a polygraph series?

Accepted Answer

To familiarize the examinee with the process and verify that instrumentation is functioning correctly

Answer

An acquaintance test helps adapt the examinee to the polygraph environment and verifies that all sensors are recording properly before the formal examination begins.

Question 5

In the Federal Psychophysiological Detection of Deception (PDD) format, how many relevant questions are typically included per chart?

Accepted Answer

Three to four

Answer

Federal PDD formats typically include three to four relevant questions per chart to maintain focus on the target issue while allowing adequate physiological recovery between questions.

(CPE) Certified Polygraph Examiner Practice Test

(CPE) Certified Polygraph Examiner Practice Test

CPE Testing Procedures 3