The adjudicative process is an examination
of a sufficient period of a person's life to make an affirmative determination that the
person is eligible for a security clearance. Eligibility for access to classified
information is predicated upon the individual meeting these personnel security guidelines.
The adjudicative process is the careful weighing of a number of variables known as the
whole person concept. Available, reliable information about the person, past and present,
favorable and unfavorable, should be considered in reaching a determination. In evaluating
the relevance of an individual's conduct, the adjudicator should consider the following
factors:
a. The nature, extent, and seriousness of the
conduct;
b. The circumstances surrounding the conduct, to include knowledgeable participation;
c. The frequency and recency of the conduct;
d. The individual's age and maturity at the time of the conduct;
e. The voluntariness of participation;
f. The presence or absence of rehabilitation and other pertinent behavioral changes;
g. The motivation for the conduct;
h. The potential for pressure, coercion, exploitation, or duress; and
i. The likelihood of continuation or recurrence.
2. Each case must be judged on its own
merits, and final determination remains the responsibility of the specific department or
agency. Any doubt as to whether access to classified information is clearly consistent
with national security will be resolved in favor of the national security.
3. The ultimate determination of whether the
granting or continuing of eligibility for a security clearance is clearly consistent with
the interests of national security must be an overall common sense determination based
upon careful consideration of the following, each of which is to be evaluated in the
context of the whole person, as explained further below:
a. Guideline A: Allegiance to the United States
b. Guideline B: Foreign influence
c. Guideline C: Foreign preference
d. Guideline D: Sexual behavior
e. Guideline E: Personal conduct
f. Guideline F: Financial considerations
g. Guideline G: Alcohol consumption
h. Guideline H: Drug involvement
j. Guideline J: Criminal conduct
k. Guideline K: Security violations
l. Guideline L: Outside activities
m. Guideline M: Misuse of
information technology systems
4. Although adverse information concerning a
single criterion may not be sufficient for an unfavorable determination, the individual
may be disqualified if available information reflects a recent or recurring pattern of
questionable judgment, irresponsibility, or emotionally unstable behavior. Notwithstanding
the whole person concept, pursuit of further investigation may be terminated by an
appropriate adjudicative agency in the face of reliable, significant, disqualifying,
adverse information.
5. When information of security concern
becomes known about an individual who is currently eligible for access to classified
information, the adjudicator should consider whether the person:
a. Voluntarily reported the information;
b. Was truthful and complete in responding to questions;
c. Sought assistance and followed professional guidance, where appropriate;
d. Resolved or appears likely to favorably resolve the security concern;
e. Has demonstrated positive changes in behavior and employment;
f. Should have his or her access temporarily suspended pending final adjudication of the
information.
This information is from the DOHA article
Adjudicative Guidelines
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