interpreting results????

[grizerl1]

I recently took a polygraph exam for my local PD.  After 14 questions were asked, the examiner asked me to hold my breath for ten seconds.  Then I retook the test two more times.  The examiner stated that my BP or heart rate reading was some how altered.  It seemed to spike up and then take four steps down on all three tests. Even before he started to ask me any questions.  But when I held my breath for ten seconds it gave the normal 1 peak and 1 valley on the reading.  The examiner accused me of some how withholding information or purposely altering the results.  He also stated that I did not fail, But I did not pass either, he just could not read the results.  I dont understand how I could have altered the results for all three tests.  They all looked alike until I held my breath for those ten seconds.  Can some one please answer my question?

[Administrator]

grizerl1,

Your post has been moved from the Police, Sheriffs', and Corrections Departments forum to the Polygraph Procedure forum.

[George W. Maschke]

grizerl1,

You didn't ask any specific question, but I infer that you meant to ask, "What does all this mean?"

Your polygrapher's statement that you neither passed nor failed and that he couldn't read the results indicates that the outcome was "inconclusive."

His accusation that you somehow withheld information or "altered" your results suggests that he may suspect that you lied and attempted to employ polygraph countermeasures.

If you haven't already done so, I suggest that you download The Lie Behind the Lie Detector. Chapters 3, 4, and 5 will be of special interest to you. Chapter 3 explains how the "test" works (and doesn't), Chapter 4 explains how to "pass" a polygraph "test," and Chapter 5 provides tips for appealing a false positive outcome that will likely be useful to you. Have you been offered a re-test?