Two inconclusive polygraphs

[John Anderson]

I took my first polygraph for a job (third in my lifetime) last week and I was told there were concerns (I was not advised what the concerns were). However, during the testing I was pressed frequently that I was not responding appropriately during control questions (questions I was supposed to lie about). Prior to the test I worked myself up with my extreme anxiety.

Fast forward, I took a second polygraph that focused on theft at work. During the examination the only feedback I was receiving was the fact I was again not responding appropriately to control questions and would fail. On the third attempt I was actually instructed to not answer out loud, but to think about my responses. After that test, I was asked if I have stolen money from a previous employer (I haven't), even though it wasn't asked during the first two tests.

After the exam I was told a report would be written and it would need to be reviewed and a decision made by management.

Again, I have anxiety issues and I wasn't lying (I'm sure everyone on the internet says that). I also have no idea how I am supposed ot control my reaction to lying in a certain way. What should I expect? What went wrong?

[Ex Member]

During the examination the only feedback I was receiving was the fact I was again not responding appropriately to control questions and would fail.

John, this is total crapola. If you were not responding appropriately to the control questions it's because he didn't formulate them properly.

You should never have submitted to polygraph testing for a theft at work.

[Dan Mangan]

Ark, maybe the CQs were directed lies.

If that's the case, "flat lining" (i.e., not responding appropriately) is all too common. Why? A test subject has no concern -- thus nothing to fear -- when they're instructed to lie.

I agree with you that the OP should not have submitted to a polygraph "test" for a work-related issue.

[Ex Member]

Thanks Dan, good point. I did not consider DLQ. But wouldn´t such a discussion just open up the opportunity for purposeful non cooperation?--even pointing out where it should be employed? "Oh, he wants me to react to these questions, let me try some mental activity."

[Ex Member]

Dan,
May I ask if you have a significant amount of experience with DLQ?