NCJ Number
224777
Journal
Polygraph Volume: 37 Issue: 1 Dated: 2008 Pages: 34-41
Date Published
2008
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This paper reviews the literature on irrelevant questions related to polygraphs, using excerpts to provide definitions, describe their functions, placement in formats, and research.
Abstract
An irrelevant question is the opening question on each chart in all standard control/comparison and relevant-irrelevant test formats. It is there because the reaction caused by the opening question is not scored. Some formats include irrelevant questions within the preordered list of questions. Other polygraph techniques put them in as needed. The answers to obvious irrelevant questions are almost always true, and the base rate of lying to identity irrelevants is low. The identity irrelevants are introduced as relevant, and if there are consistent significant reactions, the questions become relevant. Most irrelevant questions are worded to be truthfully answered “Yes,” but some are worded to be truthfully answered “No.” Using excerpts to provide definitions, describe their functions, placement in formats, and research, this paper reviews the literature on irrelevant questions as they relate to polygraph testing. References