The (F)utility of Post-Conviction Polygraph Testing

    Authors

    J. W. Rosky

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    Abbreviated Journal Title

    Sex. Abuse-J. Res. Treat.

    Keywords

    polygraph; recidivism; sexual offender treatment; assessment; evaluation; SEX OFFENDER TREATMENT; DIAGNOSTIC-TESTS; ACCURACY; COMMUNITY; UTILITY; WORKS; RISK; Psychology, Clinical; Criminology & Penology

    Abstract

    The apparent utility of the polygraph to work both as a treatment and supervision aid and as a deterrent for future offending is cited as ample justification for its use. This article examines these claims to demonstrate that although post-conviction polygraph testing may have some utility by increasing disclosures of prior offending and, within specific cases, admissions of treatment and supervision violations, the limited evidence accumulated thus far does not adequately ascertain its accuracy nor support its efficacy or effectiveness as a deterrent. The article concludes with recommendations for creating a real evidentiary base beyond polygraph testing's apparent ability to elicit more information from offenders to evidence that can determine whether it is efficacious and effective in reducing criminality and deviance.

    Journal Title

    Sexual Abuse-a Journal of Research and Treatment

    Volume

    25

    Issue/Number

    3

    Publication Date

    1-1-2013

    Document Type

    Article

    Language

    English

    First Page

    259

    Last Page

    281

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000334504400003

    ISSN

    1079-0632

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