Tom Is Interested in Working for an Intelligence Branch of the Government

question 43

Multiple Choice

Tom is interested in working for an intelligence branch of the government. A polygraph test is part of the interview process. Though Tom intends to be honest, he is worried that the polygraph will say he is lying when he is not. Tom's friend Cameron assures Tom that polygraph tests are infallible. Is Cameron right?

• A) Yes; polygraphs pick up certain physiological responses associated with lying, and there is no way to change or hide those responses.
• B) Yes; many government agencies rely on polygraphs, and they would not do so if the tests were fallible.
• C) No; anxiety may cause false positives and people can be coached to "beat" polygraphs.
• D) No; polygraph machines are just props that allow the examiner to watch for cues that the subject is lying, and the examiner may make errors due to bias.

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Definitions:

Blood Smear

A laboratory test where blood is spread on a slide and stained to examine the blood cells under a microscope, helping in the diagnosis of blood disorders.

Sharps Container

A puncture-resistant and leak-proof container designed specifically for the disposal of sharp objects, such as needles and scalpels.

Anticoagulant

A substance that prevents blood from clotting, used in medical treatment to prevent blood clots from forming or growing larger.

Plasma

The liquid component of blood in which blood cells are suspended, consisting mainly of water, proteins, and dissolved substances.