The accuracy of a test will drop significantly if the questions are regarding multiple issues.
For the vast majority of our clients a single-issue polygraph test is the most appropriate. This is because the reason most of our clients undertake the examination is because they have been falsely accused of something and they want to clear their name. A single-issue test is conducted in relation to one specific issue with up to three questions asked in relation to that one distinct issue. This is the most accurate type of test. See the American Polygraph Association website for more information on the validity and accuracy of lie detector testing.
More is not always better
Sometimes an examinee may be more focused on how many questions they can be asked and trying to ensure these questions cover as much as possible about multiple issues. They may feel this represents better value for money. This is not a good strategy. Asking questions about more than one issue (from a polygraph perspective) in the same examination will significantly affect the accuracy of the test. Research has shown that multi-issue tests and screening tests are considerably less accurate than single-issue tests.
Additionally, the narrower the scope of the questions will produce the best accuracy.
We always explain to our clients that the best way to understand the scope of a test is to consider it to be actually just one question, as the second and the third questions should be in relation to the same issue and should not deviate too much from the original question. This will mean the result is as accurate as it can possibly be.
We are committed to providing the most accurate polygraph / lie detector testing for our clients, which will stand up to professional scrutiny.
Click here for more information on the accuracy of polygraph testing.