Lie detection profession maintaining ethical conduct through BPS regulations
The British Polygraph Society (BPS) is committed to maintaining the highest ethical standards in the field of lie detection, ensuring that polygraph examinations are conducted with integrity, accuracy, and professionalism.
At the heart of the BPS's Code of Ethics is the emphasis on professional competency through regular training and skill updates for examiners. This commitment to ongoing education helps maintain high standards of practice and reliability in testing.
Confidentiality and professionalism are also fundamental principles for the BPS. Examinations are conducted with utmost discretion, fostering trust and credible results for clients.
The BPS employs scientifically validated techniques such as the Concealed Information Test (CIT) and the Comparison Question Test (CQT), based on evidence-based research to improve accuracy and reduce false results.
Recognising the factors influencing test results, the BPS takes into account medical conditions, medications, and other physiological states that could impact the polygraph's readings.
The BPS promotes the appropriate use of polygraph testing, supporting its use in criminal justice settings such as parole monitoring for sex offenders, and in employment settings where ethical use supports fairness without overstepping legal limits.
The BPS follows professional codes of ethical conduct that align with broader standards in the field, such as those established by related organizations. While the BPS specifics may not be as detailed in the search results, their alignment is implied through training and practice standards.
Although the UK legal system has yet to fully recognise polygraph evidence, the BPS emphasises ethical practice to ensure that polygraph testing remains a valuable, credible, and scientifically grounded tool, minimising the risk of misuse or errors.
Examiners are prohibited from administering polygraph tests when there is reason to believe the examination is intended for nefarious purposes. The BPS also ensures that examiners maintain integrity in their fee structures, prohibiting them from requesting or accepting fees, gifts, or gratuities that may influence their decisions or opinions. Fees for polygraph services are expected to remain consistent, irrespective of the test results.
Respect for the rights and dignity of all subjects participating in polygraph examinations is another key principle. Examiners are required to allow subjects a fair chance to explain their physiological reactions to relevant questions during post-examination procedures.
Deviation from the BPS's Code of Ethics or Standards of Practice may result in investigation, reprimand, suspension, or expulsion.
Established in 2015, the BPS has been promoting professionalism and ethical conduct in the field of lie detection for several years. The society's dedication to maintaining high ethical standards makes it a trusted authority in the polygraph profession.
- The British Polygraph Society (BPS) advocates for regular training and skill updates among examiners, prioritizing professional competency in the field of lie detection.
- The BPS conducts polygraph examinations with confidentiality and professionalism, fostering trust among clients through discretion and credible results.
- In order to improve accuracy and reduce false results, the BPS employs scientifically validated techniques such as the Concealed Information Test (CIT) and the Comparison Question Test (CQT), based on evidence-based research.
- Recognizing factors influencing test results, the BPS takes into account medical conditions, medications, and other physiological states that could impact polygraph readings.
- The BPS supports the appropriate use of polygraph testing in criminal justice and employment settings, promoting fairness and ethical use without overstepping legal limits.
- Adhering to professional codes of ethical conduct, the BPS ensures that examiners maintain integrity in their decision-making, prohibiting undue influences and respecting the rights and dignity of test subjects.
