Summary
A 48-year-old senior research scientist was denied a security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) and Guideline I (Psychological Conditions). The applicant had a history of psychiatric conditions, including diagnoses of Psychosis and Bipolar I Disorder, currently manic, with psychotic features and anxious distress. He also had a diagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder, mild, and continued to consume alcohol against medical advice.
The denial was based on several factors. The applicant failed to follow medical advice to abstain from alcohol, which was deemed critical for managing his bipolar disorder. His ongoing alcohol consumption, despite medical recommendations, raised questions about his reliability and trustworthiness.
Furthermore, the applicant's history of repeated psychiatric hospitalizations and current alcohol use led to doubts about his judgment and reliability. A psychological evaluation indicated a moderate to high probability of future episodes of manic or depressive behavior. The judge concluded that the applicant's actions were inconsistent with national security interests.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant failed to follow medical advice to abstain from alcohol, which is critical for managing his bipolar disorder.
- The applicant's history of psychiatric hospitalizations and current alcohol use raised doubts about his judgment and reliability.
- The psychological evaluation indicated a moderate to high probability of future episodes of manic or depressive behavior due to his conditions.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 28(a)appliedBehavior That Casts Doubt on an Individual’s Judgment, Stability, Reliability, or Trustworthiness
- AG ¶ 28(b)appliedAn Opinion by a Duly Qualified Mental Health Professional That the Individual Has a Condition That May Impair Judgment, Stability, Reliability, or Trustworthiness
- AG ¶ 28(c)appliedVoluntary or Involuntary Inpatient Treatment
- AG ¶ 28(d)appliedFailure to Follow a Prescribed Treatment Plan Related to a Diagnosed Psychological/psychiatric Condition
- AG ¶ 22(d)appliedDiagnosis by a Duly Qualified Medical or Mental Health Professional of Alcohol Use Disorder
Key Rule Quoted
“Any doubt concerning personnel being considered for access to classified information will be resolved in favor of the national security.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedSep 14, 2020
- Answer filedOct 19, 2020
- Hearing heldJun 30, 2022via video teleconference
- Decision dateSep 1, 2022
Cite For
- Failure to Mitigate Psychological Conditions Under Guideline I
- Failure to Mitigate Alcohol Consumption Concerns Under Guideline G
- Importance of Compliance with Medical Advice in Security Clearance Evaluations