Polygraph tests are useful tools for resolving doubt, but they’re not suitable for every situation or every person. Whether you’re considering a test for yourself, a partner, or an employee, it’s important to know who qualifies as a good candidate and when it’s better to seek alternatives.
In this article, we’ll break down who should and shouldn’t take a polygraph test in South Africa, so you can make an informed and responsible decision.
✅ Who Is a Good Candidate for Polygraph Testing?
A polygraph test works best when the person being tested is:
- Able to understand and follow instructions
- Willing to participate voluntarily
Polygraph results depend on clear communication and reliable physiological responses. That’s why suitability screening is always a key part of a professional examiner’s process.
Let’s look at common situations where polygraph tests are appropriate:
- Employment Screening – Used to vet candidates in high-trust roles (security, finance, logistics), particularly when agreed upon as part of company policy.
- Internal Theft or Misconduct Investigations – When there’s suspicion within a team or organisation, a voluntary polygraph can help narrow down facts without jumping to conclusions.
- Relationship Issues or Infidelity – Many individuals use polygraph testing to confirm or resolve suspicions in personal relationships, especially when trust has been broken.
- Legal or Civil Cases -Attorneys sometimes request polygraph tests to support affidavits or clarify facts.
❌ Who Should Avoid a Polygraph Test?
Not every person is suited for a polygraph. A good examiner will screen out unsuitable candidates to protect the integrity of the results.
Here’s when a test may not be appropriate:
- Minors Without Consent – In South Africa, individuals under 18 generally cannot be tested without written consent from a legal guardian, and even then, only under specific conditions.
- Non-Voluntary Participants – Polygraph tests should never be forced. Involuntary participants may give inconsistent or emotionally distressed readings, resulting in inconclusive or invalid outcomes.
⚠️ Situations Where a Re-Test May Be Required
Even suitable candidates may produce inconclusive results. In such cases, an examiner may recommend:
- Rest and recovery before a follow-up session
- Changing question phrasing
- Ruling out attempted countermeasures
A second test is often more reliable once initial anxiety has worn off.
🔎 Why Screening Matters
Professional examiners don’t test everyone who asks. They conduct a suitability screening first to ensure:
- The subject understands the process
- They’re mentally and physically capable
- There are no obvious external pressures or risks
This protects both the subject and the accuracy of the outcome.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Is a Polygraph the Right Call?
A polygraph is a powerful tool, but only in the right hands and with the right person. The best way to know if someone is a good candidate is to speak to a professional examiner who will assess their suitability honestly.
Need clarity on whether a polygraph is the right step for your situation?
👉 Contact us for a free consultation we’ll guide you through the next steps.