I applied last year with 2 different law enforcement agencies. With both, the polygraph resulted in disqualification. Both tests were very similar in pacing of interview and scheme of questioning, as well as the types of questions asked. With both, I was completely open with the entire application process. I have nothing in my background which would result in my disqualification from any department. Except for a few college pranks, I've always been a straight arrow.

During the post-test exam with the first agency, the examiner informed me there was deception indicated in a specific area. Thinking it would appease the examiner and the agency, I made a false written confession. The examiner backed off after this and gave no indication as to whether I passed or failed. A few days later, I received a written conditional offer of employment, which I took as proof that I passed the exam. After taking and passing the psychological and medical exams within the next few weeks, I received a disqualification letter. It gave no reason other than "application issues". I verified with a high-ranking department official that it was due to the polygraph. I was informed that I could re-apply one year from the date of the polygraph exam. I have thought about re-applying but feel the false written confession will always be there hanging over my head and provide a huge obstacle to overcome.

The exam with the second agency resulted in deception in many areas, not just one. Besides not making a false written confession, my answers given paralleled the first polygraph experience. This was very confusing to me. How could this exam show I was being truthful in the area the other did not, but show deception in areas the other one said I was being truthful in? Minutes after being informed in the post-test interview that I had failed the exam and would be eventually disqualified, I withdrew my application with the department and walked out. I have since been contacted by the department and told that we can "discuss" the deception found by the exam and maybe work something out. Not wanting to further play "the game", I declined and have not contacted them since.

I have a B.S. degree in Criminal Justice and have worked in a related-field since all of this happened last year. As well, I come from a long line of police officers and feel that law enforcement is where my talents can be best-served.

I feel countermeasures are unethical and I'm not going to sacrifice my personal integrity just to say I passed the test.

I feel that I have now developed a personal "complex" towards the polygraph and may never be able to pass one. Does anyone else feel this way after hearing about my experience? Am I wasting my time? Should I keep trying or just move on?

George,

Thanks for your reply. In all actuality, I'm really confused over what to do. I didn't think about how the false written confession already compromised my integrity when writing the post. You really pointed out a discrepancy there. I'm just trying to confront this whole process with the utmost honesty, as many who have been burned by the polygraph do. I've been told by many officers of those agencies with which I applied to give it another shot. Only time will tell.

Kona,

It was to appease the examiner. Big mistake, I know. I only wish I could take it back.

Justanothercontrac,

First of all, I wasn't passing any judgement on  hcanewannabe.  I was primarily asking why he would take the time to write out a statement that was a.) false and b.) self incriminating, if his personal integrity was so important to him.  He answered my question when he told me that he was doing it to appease the polygrapher.  Fair enough, I believe him.

Secondly, I simply stated my personal opinion that the written statement in question could be very damning to any future attempt at joining a police force.  Again, not judging, just stating an opinion.   

Kona