OK ok i think im gettin it now.... although just to clear things up....
1) Pre test Questionairre: Have you ever used a computer for illegal or nuissance purposes? I answer yes.... and explain I have downloaded various songs.
2) Pre-test interview: I am asked the same question adn I respond the same way.
3) During the test: I am asked, 'other then what you mentioned, have you used a computer for anything else deemed illegal or a nuissance?
Ok correct me if I'm wrong, but #3 is a control question right?
If the question was, have you ever used the computer to steal software, that would be relevant. Am I correct?
Thanks NETNIN for all your comments... I am sure things will be clearer to me once I do the polygraph.
Trout,
Your question #3 could conceivably be used as a probable-lie control question, but it would be a very poor choice, and I doubt you'll encounter it.
Note that the fact that you make some minor admission to a question like that in your example does not ipso facto make the question a "control" question.
For example, in a national security setting, a relevant question about computer crime may well be asked. The fact that you admit to having downloaded MP3s does not somehow transform the relevant question about computer crime into a "control" question.