Effect of Lie Detectors on Human Health

A lie detector test, formally known as a polygraph test, is a function associated with ensuring one person is telling another or others the truth about past and recent behavior. A lie detector test can be used for employment purposes, criminal investigations or even simply for fact-finding missions. The effects on human health for those taking a polygraph are minimal, though some people may experience more effects compared to others; mainly when the person has a pre-existing or lingering medical condition or disorder.

Pre-testing Effect

• The days and hours leading up to a polygraph test can be seen through both physical and psychological effects. The person scheduled or slated to take the lie detector test may experience bouts of nervousness and anxiety as the testing date and time draws closer. These effects on human health will pass once the test is taken and the situation is resolved. Though it is recommended that a good night's sleep be had on the night before a lie detector test, some people may have a hard time getting rest due to the anticipation associated with the test itself.

Heart Rate

• A person's heart rate may increase during a lie detector test as stress and anxiety manifest into faster breathing and nervousness. Though this is not harmful, an increased heart rate may make some people with pre-existing medical conditions feel slightly weak and perhaps dizzy. Because of this, those with heart conditions, lung disorders or even psychological disorders associated with anxiety must inform the test administrator prior to the test to help control any potential side effects which may occur as a result of an increased heart rate.

Rapid Breathing

• Though a lie detector test is not painful or uncomfortable in a physical sense, the blood pressure cuff and associated electrodes utilized during the test may cause some people to feel confined. For people with difficulty being strapped down or made to sit still, the process may cause rapid breathing which is a psychological effect that presents itself as a physical change. Rapid breathing can cause some stress and discomfort to those with breathing problems or conditions.

Emotional Impact

• The stress and anticipation experienced by people prior to, during and following a polygraph test can cause emotional discomfort. Depending on the reasons behind the lie detector test, some people may exhibit stress-induced symptoms such as an upset stomach, nausea, dizziness or anxiety. The level of impact and effect differs for all people, and those with a tendency to have emotional responses to stressful situations may experience more symptoms when compared to others.