Which statement is correct regarding polygraph examinations for sexual assault victims?

• A. Victims are required to take a polygraph
• B. Victims have the right to refuse a lie detector test; polygraphs cannot be required
• C. Polygraphs are always used in sexual assault investigations
• D. A polygraph determines legal guilt

Answer: (B)

In sexual assault investigations, polygraph testing is voluntary for the victim. You cannot require a survivor to take a lie detector test, and polygraph results are not admissible in court or used to determine guilt. The test assesses physiological responses that can be affected by stress, trauma, fear, or medications, so it isn’t a reliable measure of truth. Investigators may use it as an information-gathering tool only if the victim consents, but it cannot be forced or used as the basis for prosecutorial decisions.