Lessons learned from failed poly

[importscout]

I have no qualms in openly admitting that I have every intention of lying on my polygraph.  I do not believe that it is anybody's business to coerce information out of me that is not readily available in my spotlessly clean background record - simply because I am applying for a career in law enforcement.  

That said, I breifly read Doug's online book and did not have any time to practice before my first-ever Poly with my second-choice agency.  There were VERY few control questions & irrelevant questions used - a grand total of 3 questions, 1 of which was irrelevant, the remaining 13 were all relevant.  The chair I was in was made of wood with absolutely no padding, so I felt it safe to use the anal sphincter reaction for the controls.  This was not enough, and the fear of having lied when asked 'how many times i've used marijuana' showed enough of a result for me to fail the test.  I was shocked in how few controls were used.  

There was a 'calibration' period that consisted of only controls and irrelevants.  This was meant to adjust the computer and compensate for my level of nervousness.  I have not read anything about the 'calibration' series - is it a good idea to show elevated reactions for this period?

My interrogator was deliberately nasty and hardnosed.  After reading the information on this site, I am shocked at how subjective the 'test' is - and that even the way in which I answered 'yes' or 'no' may have swayed the test.  

Best of luck to everyone in their polygraph woes.  I will be sure to practice as much as possible for my first choice agency.  

[polyfool]

Importscout:

Sounds like you may have mistook some controls for relevants based on your post. The calibration period is also known as the stim test. This is described in detail in TLBTLD. Maybe you should have spent more time reading the free information instead of shelling out money to read  Doug's online book. Also, if you had planned on lying I would think you would have spent a little more time studying.

[importscout]

Good advice.  I found out about all of this stuff a little late in the game (the night before) my first poly.  Live and learn on my part.