I want to address this area of disgruntled fidelity clients who are not happy with their polygraph results.
A polygraph should be a last resort for couples that are experiencing marital conflict. I encourage clients to work through their problems with an accredited couple’s therapist. I do not want to be a cause for any type of marriage or relationship breakup. The couple needs to work through their trust issues since a polygraph will not likely be a cure or solution for their troubles.
Over the years, I have been working with various marriage/family therapists to provide fidelity testing in the context of a therapeutic alliance. My role of a polygraph examiner working with a therapist is more related to having the client being “accountable” for his or her actions.” My report goes to the therapist to clarify issues that may need to be worked on in therapy.
If a client and their partner are not engaging in therapy, I will be the first one to encourage them to seek help through therapy. I would tell them that their money is better spent on therapy than having a polygraph.
I have been polygraphing for 40 years and I have never called clients liars or cheaters. In my practice, the findings are not about either PASS OR FAIL but to CONFIRM the statement being made by the client undergoing the test. If I can’t confirm the statement, this doesn’t mean that they failed. There could be many reasons why I wasn’t able to confirm the test with the client ( e.g., discrepancies or incorrect information; memory impairment; alcohol or drug issues, acquired brain injury; lack of sleep, acute anxiety, mental health issues, intellectual/cognitive impairment, et cetera).
It is not that I don’t want to conduct polygraph fidelity cases, but I encourage couples to seek help before considering other options.
Happy holidays and best to you and your loved ones in 2025!!!