Polygraph with mentally disordered sex offenders
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The utility of polygraph with mentally disordered sex offenders within a secure Hospital
IRAS ID
168517
Contact name
Nikki Collins
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 31 days
Research summary
This research project will consider the utility of post-conviction sex offender test (PCSOT) polygraph examination, in assessing the reliability of information provided about previous sexual offending behaviour of patients convicted of a sexual offence or identified sexual offence behaviour and held within a secure Hospital.
The research will record the results of the polygraph examination (‘Deception indicated’, ‘No deception indicated’ and ‘Inconclusive’). Information about disclosures made (the number and range of victims, sexual offences, and ‘unhealthy’ sexual interests) will be collated at three stages: 1) before the polygraph (based on a file review), 2) during a psychosexual assessment to include the Risk Matrix 2000 and Violence Risk Scale- Sex Offender version (VRS-SO), and 3) during the polygraph (pre-test and post-test interview). One month later, one group will have a polygraph [Imm Poly], another will have a 2 month delay before undertaking the polygraph [delayed Poly]. The risk assessments will be reviewed after completion of the polygraph and in light of information disclosed. In addition, a comparison group will not receive a polygraph [No Poly]. It is proposed to randomly allocate participants to one of the three groups. Results from the assessments will then be compared in terms of increased information following the polygraph and non-polygraph interviews. Most patients and referring teams have expressed positive views about the polygraph assessment and have indicated the results enhance understanding of patient’s behaviour. To evaluate this, both participants and a member of their Clinical team will be asked to complete a questionnaire aimed at assessing their experiences of the polygraph and to rate the patient’s engagement. Further, review of the VRS-SO for each patient will be analysed so as to establish whether any information regarding sexual history, disclosed as a result of the polygraph examination, has helped to inform risk assessment and treatment needs.
REC name
South Central - Berkshire B Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/SC/0327
Date of REC Opinion
30 Jun 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion