Summary
A 46-year-old applicant with a bachelor's degree was denied eligibility for a public trust position due to concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline I (Psychological Conditions). The Statement of Reasons alleged that the applicant intentionally provided false information on his December 2012 Questionnaire for National Security Positions (SF 86), during two background interviews in 2013, and in his response to interrogatories. Specifically, he failed to report psychiatric treatment in approximately 2005, and his treatment and hospitalization in 2008.
Additionally, the applicant has a twelve-year history of somatic and persecutory delusions, though there were no indications of schizophrenic-type behavior, prominent hallucinations, disorganized speech, or disorganized behavior. While these delusions had minimal impact on his occupational functioning and a diminishing impact on social functioning, they were not attributed to substance use, medication, or a general medical condition.
Ultimately, the applicant refuted the personal conduct allegations but failed to mitigate the psychological conditions. The denial was based on the psychologist's opinion that the applicant's chronic delusional disorder would continue to impair his judgment, reliability, and trustworthiness. The applicant did not demonstrate ongoing compliance with a treatment plan, and his persistent delusions raised unresolved concerns about his suitability for a public trust position.
Why the applicant was denied
- The applicant has a history of delusional disorder, somatic and persecutory type, which the psychologist opined would continue to impair his judgment, reliability, and trustworthiness.
- The applicant did not demonstrate ongoing compliance with a treatment plan for his psychological condition, which is considered chronic and unlikely to remit.
- The applicant's delusions persist, raising unresolved concerns about his suitability for a public trust position.
Conditions referenced
- I.AappliedPsychological ConditionsThe applicant's delusional disorder was diagnosed by a qualified mental health professional, indicating impairment of judgment and reliability.
Key rule quoted
“Any doubt concerning personnel being considered for access to sensitive information will be resolved in favor of national security.”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedOct 26, 2015
- Answer filedNov 19, 2015Applicant elected to have the case decided on the written record.
- Hearing held—No hearing; case decided on written record.
- Decision dateApr 25, 2017
Cite for
- Denial of Eligibility Due to Unresolved Psychological Conditions Under Guideline I
- Impact of Delusional Disorder on Judgment and Reliability
- Refutation of Personal Conduct Concerns Under Guideline E