The act of not successfully completing a polygraph examination involves physiological responses being interpreted as indicative of deception by the examiner. For example, elevated heart rate, increased perspiration, or changes in breathing patterns during relevant questions, when compared to control questions, can contribute to such an outcome.
The implications of such an outcome are complex, varying depending on the context in which the examination is administered. Historically, these assessments have been utilized in criminal investigations, pre-employment screening, and internal workplace investigations. However, the admissibility of the results in legal settings remains a subject of ongoing debate due to questions regarding their scientific validity and reliability. The perceived consequences can range from increased scrutiny to denial of employment or even legal repercussions, depending on the specific circumstances.