I__. - International Military Testing Association

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rapport with the subject, explains the interview purpose and format, and secures a verbal
commitment from the subject to provide truthful and complete information.
At some point during the subject interview, the interviewer informs the subject of the
privacy act. This may be done at the beginning of the interview (e.g., DIS, OPM) or near the
end of the interview (e.g., FBI, CIA). OPM subject interviews are conducted under oath. None
of the other agency officials mentioned use of an oath, although DIS interviewers seek written
signed statements when the subject provides significant derogatory information.
Background Review. Following the introduction to the subject interview, the interviewer
generally reviews the subject’s background history form. During this phase of the interview, the
interviewer questions the subject about specific items on the form, emphasizing items that ‘have
been identified as omitted or discrepant during the preparation phase. A review of each item on
the form is generally not undertaken.
Issue Development. In the issue development phase, the interviewer systematically
questions the subject on a range of topics, In most agencies, a standard list of topics is covered.
These topics, which are similar across agencies, include education, employment, residence,
alcohol, drugs, mental treatment, moral behavior, family and associates, foreign connections,
foreign travel, financial responsibi!ity, organizations, loyalty, criminal history, handling
information, and trust. Coverage of interview topics generally begins with questions on the
subject’s background (e.g., education, employment) and later proceeds into the more sensitive
areas.
Conclusion. The concluding phase of the interview is focused on answering any
concerns of the interviewee. The next steps of the security clearance process are also explained
at this time.
Interview Procedures
A variety of techniques are used to facilitate the investigative interview process.
Interviewers are typically trained in four general categories of interviewing skills: motivation,
questioning, observation, and listening.
Motivation. Subjects are motivated in disclosing sensitive information to the interviewer
in several ways. The interviewer ensures that the interviewee understands the purpose, format,
and content of the interview. The “whole person” concept of adjudication is explained so that
the interviewee understands that negative information is judged in terms of the circumstances of
the situation, how long ago it happened, etc., and in terms of the positive qualities of the person.
The interviewee is informed of the consequences of omitting or providing misleading
information. The interviewer typically secures a verbal commitment to provide complete and
truthful information.
Rapport is maintained by displaying a non-judgmental attitude, fairness, and respect.
Objections are managed by clearly identifying the nature of the objection or hesitation; re-stating
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