Adjudicative Guidelines

Adjudicative Guidelines

The uniform Adjudicative Guidelines that resulted from the implementation of Exec. Order No. 12968 state that the ultimate determination for granting or continuing eligibility for a security clearance must be an overall common-sense determination that is based upon careful consideration of the 13 adjudicative guidelines, each of which is to be evaluated in the context of the whole person, weighing all of the positive and negative factors (the whole person concept). The Adjudicative Guidelines specify that 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.

In evaluating the relevance of an individual's conduct, the adjudicator should consider the following factors:

1. The nature, extent, and seriousness of the conduct,
2. The circumstances surrounding the conduct, to include knowledgeable participation,
3. The frequency and recency of the conduct,
4. The individual's age and maturity at the time of the conduct,
5. The voluntariness of participation,
6. The presence or absence of rehabilitation and other pertinent behavioral changes,
7. The motivation for the conduct,
8. The potential for pressure, coercion, exploitation, or duress, and
9. The likelihood of continuation or recurrence.

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.

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