Adjudicative Guidelines
A personnel security investigation is an inquiry into an individual’s loyalty, character, trustworthiness, and reliability to ensure that he or she is eligible to access classified information or occupy a position of trust. Any doubt concerning personnel being considered for access to classified information/eligibility to perform sensitive duties is resolved in favor of the national security.
The 13 Adjudicative Guidelines for determining eligibility to perform sensitive duties:
- Allegiance to the U.S.
- Foreign influence.
- Foreign preference.
- Sexual behavior.
- Personal conduct.
- Financial considerations.
- Alcohol consumption.
- Drug involvement.
- Psychological conditions.
- Criminal conduct.
- Handling protected information.
- Outside activities.
- Use of information technology systems.
The 13 Adjudicative Guidelines are also used in evaluating the impact of a potentially derogatory event.
In addition, the Adjudication Facility may take into account other factors:
- The nature, extent, and seriousness of the circumstances.
- The fact that reporting was voluntary.
- Truthfulness and completeness in responding to questions.
- The fact that the employee sought help and followed professional guidance.
- Whether positive changes in behavior were demonstrated.
Visit the
Personnel Security Appeals Board (PSAB)
website for more information about Adjudicative Guidelines.