The duration of a polygraph examination, commonly referred to as a lie detector test, is variable. A typical session encompasses pre-test interviewing, the actual physiological data collection, and post-test analysis. This entire process can take anywhere from two to four hours to complete.
Understanding the typical time commitment offers benefits for both the examinee and the administrator. For the examinee, it allows for better planning and reduces anxiety associated with the unknown. For the administrator, proper scheduling ensures adequate time for each phase, contributing to the reliability of the test results. Historically, the polygraph’s acceptance and use have been debated; however, its application persists in certain fields, necessitating a clear understanding of its procedural aspects.
