Tom Stewart is a licensed polygraph examiner with 15 years of experience. A credibility assessment uses objective measures to assess the veracity of one’s claims.
Polygraph:
When used correctly, the polygraph can assist in the restoration of trust in relationship that are recovering from infidelity. Willingness to participate in a polygraph exam is an overt sign to others that you are serious about treatment and committed to openness. The testing procedure can set the foundation for trust by reducing anxiety in the wounded partner. It can be a tangible way to increase accountability and demonstrate earnestness in recovery. There are two types of polygraph exams used in treatment:
1. Sexual History Exam: This test is used to show that you have been honest about your past. You would be asked to fill out a sexual history questionnaire before the exam. Your responses on this form would be reviewed with your therapist. The polygraph exam would ask questions designed to verify that you have been truthful in your responses.
2. Maintenance Exam: This test will focus on your recent sexual behaviors (i.e. since starting treatment). It is a way to verify that you have maintained abstinence over a set period of time (i.e. over the last 6 months, year, etc.)