Polygraph means "many graphs" and is descriptive of the polygraph test that measures more than one physiological change

in the body when trying to detect deception by the person being tested.

In reality, the term polygraph as used in this detection of deception lexicon is a misnomer. The use of the polygraph

instrument to record human physiological change for the purpose of detecting deception is only one of the processes

and procedures used in the Physiological Detection of Deception (PDD). Forensic Psychophysiolgy is the discipline

that provides the student, the practitioner and the researcher, with the theoretical and applied psychological, physiological

and psychophysiological fundamentals for understanding and conducting Physiological Detection of Deception (PDD)

examinations and to pursue research.

The validity and reliability of a specific PDD examination (polygraph test)is a direct result of the proper administration

of that specific exam. To maximise the known potential of fear of detection of deception resulting in physiological changes

inside the human body, these changes being recorded with a polygraph instrument, and the proper identification of these

changes by a qualified polygraphist, a comprehensive understanding of Forensic Psychophysiology and the ability to

properly administer PDD exams are essential.

Training as a Polygraphist in the distant past usually required an extended stay in the USA. Travelling and

accomodation in US dollar rates means it is extremely expensive for South Africans and many others to attend these

courses. Since 1997, the Veri-Dicus Group has presented Basic and Advanced polygraph courses in South Africa,

in conjunction with Argenbright International Institute of Polygraph and the American Internation Institute

of Polygraph. These courses provided South Africans and others with the opportunity to receive Internationally

Accredited Polygraph Training with some of the best American polygraph instructors, at drastically reduced cost.

Due to the escalation of crime, fraud and corruption on the African continent, there is a growing need for highly qualified

polygraphists. This has resulted in the registration of the American International Institute of Polygraph (South Africa),

to facilitate professional, comprehensive and internationally accredited training on the continent.