Ha ha! I can relate. I'm the type of person if someone makes an allegation in a room about someone doing something, and I know it wasn't me, I immediately turn red and look guilty!
But what if it was a loved one who was missing or dead? I also have anxiety disorder and have reacted the same way as you to a sudden camera. But I would do it in a heartbeat if it was someone I loved who went missing or turned up dead.
The key also is how do non-lawyers tend to respond when asked to do one? Why would someone who knows he shouldn't take a polygraph also talk to LE?
Polygraphs are psychological. They aren't science but they can be very effective. Because they're used in the context of an interview/interrogation. It's actually part of it. So instead of saying, "I believe you're lying. I believe you know exactly what happened to Tiffany. I think you hurt her." They may say, "Did you have anything to do with the death of Tiffany? Did you harm her in any way? Did you kil her?" "Sir take a look at this chart. What this shows me right here - and this is the machine, not me- you're being deceptive. So you need to tell us what you know."
The only difference between agreeing to be interviewed by LE and a polygraph is the results of the polygraph aren't admissible but what you say to LE is.
I am very interested when close family or loved ones refuse. I do not believe that ANY innocent loved ones would refuse a polygraph if their person is missing unless they're sociopaths.
But other people? Refusal to take one may or may not indicate anything. How sophisticated is the person? Do they have experience with the criminal justice system or the law? Are they also refusing to talk at all?
If WC is actually talking to LE, but refusing a polygraph? That's a possible red flag to me.
Otherwise, not really.