BACKGROUND
OF POLYGRAPH
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 Psychophysiological
Detection of Deception (PDD). Forensic Psychophysiology is the
discipline that provides the student, the practitioner and the
researcher, with the theoretical and applied psychological, physiologice
and psychophysiological fundamentals for "understanding and
conducting PDD examinations and to pursue research". (Yankee,
Polygraph, Vol 23, No. 3, 1994).
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 insid 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. This understanding
and ability results only from quality study and training.
In
the past, training
as a polygraphist
usually
required an extended stay in the USA. Travelling and accommodation
in USA dollar rates meant it was extremely expensive for South Africans
and many others to attend these courses. Since 1998, Veri-Dicus
has presented Basic and Advanced courses in South Africa, in conjunction
with the Argenbright and American International Institutes of Polygraph.
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 (SA),
to facilitate professional, comprehensive and internationally accredited
training on the continent.
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