Introducing the First Polygraph Machine

When we perform polygraph examinations in Knoxville today, we use the latest polygraph technology and computer equipment to formulate results based on the readings taken by the machine during the exam. However, it hasn't always been this way. In 1906, cardiologist Sir James McKenzie invented the first polygraph machine, but it would take many years to develop into anything resembling our modern polygraph machines. Police Officer John Larson and psychologist William Moulton Marston also played significant roles in developing the modern polygraph. It was Marston who first incorporated systolic blood pressure monitoring as part of the polygraph exam.

How Accurate is a Polygraph Exam?

Polygraph tests were first computerized around 86 years after the test was first invented. This has done a great deal to improve the accuracy of polygraph exams. It is widely accepted that when administered correctly by a qualified examiner, a polygraph exam is around 98% accurate. That is why choosing the correct examiner when you need polygraph examinations in Knoxville is so important. The better qualified and more experienced the examiner is, the more accurate your results will be.

At Kendall Investigations, all of our polygraphs are conducted by our founder, Kendall W. Shull, the only person in the world who has attained a Master of Science in Polygraphy. He set up Kendall Investigations in 2001 after retiring from an accomplished career with the FBI. During his 25 years as a Special Agent of the FBI, Kendall served as chief of the entire FBI Polygraph Program in Washington, DC. He has become one of the leading experts in the field of polygraphy, and his research has been published in various journals and publications. He has also provided expert consultation on a variety of television shows, including the aforementioned Couples Court with The Cutlers, Entertainment Tonight, and Investigation Discovery Channel. If you are looking for polygraph examinations in Knoxville, you will not find anyone that is more qualified or more experienced.

Applications Of Polygraph Examinations

As we have already discussed, while reality television is perhaps the most familiar application of polygraph examinations for most people, it is widely used in a variety of applications, including criminal investigations, background checks, infidelity, custody cases, divorce proceedings, private investigations, and even the recruitment process for jobs in certain industries. It is important to note that polygraphs can only be used as part of the recruitment process in accordance with the Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) of 1988. Only certain industries can use polygraphs for recruitment, including security service firms, armored car services, pharmaceutical manufacturing companies, and some government agencies. Private employers may be able to use polygraph examinations when employees are suspected of involvement in an activity that results in economic loss or injury to the employer as long as it is administered in line with the EPPA.

Who Can Be a Polygraph Examiner?

We have discussed the importance of finding a polygraph examiner who has the skill and experience to administer an accurate test, but who can actually administer a test? Technically, anyone can purchase the necessary equipment to conduct a lie detector test, but without the necessary training, the test would have little value! In order to offer polygraph examinations in Knoxville commercially, the examiner must hold a license issued by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. When you are looking for polygraph examinations in Knoxville, always take the time to look at the provider's qualifications, and don't be afraid to ask them for their license. Refusal to provide this information is a major red flag, and that examiner should be avoided.

What Does a Test Look Like?

Aside from reality television, the other place most people will see a polygraph in action is in a detective movie or cop drama on television. You will have seen the suspect wired up to the polygraph machine being bombarded with questions. This is not at all realistic! Genuine polygraph examinations in Knoxville will take several hours, and the questions only begin once the test has been carefully structured during an interview before the test. Getting accurate results often relies on choosing the most appropriate questions, which can be a skill in itself. This is another illustration of why choosing an experienced examiner is so important.

In conclusion, while polygraph examinations are often glamorized in pop culture, the reality is far more intricate and structured. Polygraphs serve critical roles in various fields, from criminal investigations to employment screenings, and their accuracy is heavily dependent on the examiner's expertise. Kendall Investigations is proud to offer professional polygraph examinations in Knoxville, led by a trusted and highly experienced examiner. If you're considering a polygraph examination, ensure you're working with a licensed, skilled professional who understands the nuances of the test. At Kendall Investigations, we are committed to providing you with the highest level of expertise and accuracy in every examination.