What Is the AMGQT?
The Army Test">Modified General Question Test (AMGQT) is a polygraph testing format originally developed for use by the United States Army. It follows the general structure of a Modified General Question Test (MGQT) — a multi-issue screening format that addresses several relevant topics within a single polygraph examination session.
Important: Current Validation Status
It is critical to note that the AMGQT does not currently meet APA requirements for validation. The technique has not been supported by sufficient published peer-reviewed research to demonstrate acceptable accuracy rates across sensitivity, specificity, and Inconclusive Rate">inconclusive rate metrics. As a result, the APA does not recommend the AMGQT for diagnostic or screening use, and it is not included in the APA’s list of validated techniques.
The AMGQT has been placed on “stand-down” status by the APA, meaning APA members may not use it for examinations until further research demonstrates its reliability. This entry is included in the glossary for historical reference, professional education, and completeness.
Why Technique Validation Matters
Polygraph technique validation is the scientific process of demonstrating, through controlled research using confirmed cases (where ground truth has been independently established), that a technique produces acceptable levels of accuracy. The validation process requires:
- Published peer-reviewed research — Studies must be published in recognised journals and survive the peer review process
- Confirmed ground truth — Examinees’ actual deception or truthfulness status must be verified through independent evidence (confessions, DNA, physical evidence) rather than assumed
- Cross-validation — The technique must demonstrate accuracy on independent samples, not just the data used to develop it
- Balanced accuracy metrics — Acceptable sensitivity (detecting deception), specificity (confirming truthfulness), and manageable inconclusive rates
Without this validation process, there is insufficient scientific evidence that a technique performs reliably, and its use may produce results that cannot be defended scientifically or legally.
Alternative Validated Screening Techniques
For multi-issue screening examinations where the AMGQT might historically have been considered, several APA-validated alternatives are available and recommended:
- AFMGQT (Air Force Modified General Question Test) — Validated for multi-issue security screening, originally developed for AFOSI
- TES (Test for Espionage and Sabotage) — Focused specifically on counterintelligence issues, validated for federal use
- DLST (Screening Test">Directed Lie Screening Test) — Uses directed-lie comparison questions for more standardised comparison responses
- Utah MGQT — A validated variant of the Modified General Question Test developed at the University of Utah
Each of these techniques has been validated through published research and is approved for use under APA Standards of Practice. Results for all screening techniques are reported as SR (Significant Response) or NSR (No Significant Response).
For current information on validated techniques and polygraph research, visit the research database or the Polygraph Examiner Hub.