What Is a Psychophysiological Examination?
A psychophysiological examination (PPE) is a scientific method of verifying the truthfulness of a person's statements using a polygraph — a device that simultaneously records multiple physiological parameters: breathing, cardiovascular activity, skin conductivity, and muscular tension.
The examination is based on the principle that when a person provides false information, their body produces involuntary physiological reactions that differ from those observed during truthful responses. These differences are detected and analyzed by the polygraph.
When Is a Psychophysiological Examination Needed?
PPE is widely used in various fields:
- Corporate security: screening candidates during hiring, periodic integrity checks of existing employees
- Internal investigations: identifying those responsible for theft, fraud, information leaks
- Family matters: verifying spousal fidelity, resolving trust issues
- Legal proceedings: as additional evidence in civil and criminal cases
- Insurance claims: verifying the circumstances of insurance events
How Is the Examination Conducted?
The psychophysiological examination follows a standardized procedure consisting of several stages:
- Pre-test interview: The examiner meets with the subject, explains the procedure, discusses the questions, and obtains informed consent.
- Sensor attachment: Non-invasive sensors are placed on the subject's body to record physiological parameters.
- Testing phase: The examiner asks a series of questions while the polygraph records the subject's physiological responses. The session typically lasts 1.5–3 hours.
- Data analysis: Results are processed using professional software — POLYSCORE® and OSS-3 systems — which provide objective scoring of the data.
- Report preparation: The examiner prepares a detailed written report with conclusions. This is typically delivered within 7–15 business days.
Legal Framework in Ukraine
Polygraph testing in Ukraine is not explicitly regulated by a dedicated law, but it is conducted within the framework of current legislation:
- The examination is strictly voluntary — a person cannot be forced to take a polygraph test
- The subject has the right to refuse the test at any time, including during the procedure
- Results are confidential and are only disclosed to the person who commissioned the examination
- Polygraph results can serve as additional evidence in legal proceedings
Accuracy and Reliability
Modern psychophysiological examination methods achieve accuracy rates of up to 95%, as confirmed by numerous scientific studies and decades of practical application worldwide. The use of computerized scoring systems like POLYSCORE® and OSS-3 further enhances the objectivity of results by minimizing the human factor.
