I recently submitted to a preemployment polygraph with a government agency.  During the test I was told I was reacting to the question about drug use and was confronted about it.  I admitted to using marijuana twice when I was very young (before high school), although before the test began I said I had no experience with drugs.  I knew that the test was only going to cover my drug use since much after that time (which, incidently, is absolutely none) I did not see any positive reason to admit to it.  Also, since I was younger than 16, I did not have to reveal this on the SF86 questionaire.  After making this admission, the polygrapher ran a few more charts and seemed satisfied that there was nothing else on my mind.  After the last chart the polygrapher left the room to "consult with management," and suggested that they confirmed her judgement.  Additionally, the polygrapher stated that he/she didn't think I would need to come back for a second polygraph.

The question is:  will I not need to go back because this admission is likely to have ruined my chances of employment anyway?  A few of the employees there thought it wasn't a big deal, as did the psychologist who examined me.  Still, I am worried.  Should I be?  

Thanks.

It sounds like you did indeed pass.  The drug use that you told them about was outside of the scope of the SF86 and isn't relevant.

The bit about "consulting with management" is standard procedure.  They probably go and get a cup of coffee while they watch you on the video monitor.

Using marijuana twice while you were young will not disqualify you.

If memory serves me correctly, the SF86 asks, "Have you EVER used marijuana?"  That means it covers your entire life.  There is the chance that you could have been DQ'd for lack of candor.

I could be wrong though...

You ARE wrong...the current SF 86 states:

"Since the age of 16 or in the last 7 years, which ever is shorter, have you illegally used any controlled substance, for example, marijuana, cocaine, crack cocaine, hashish, narcotics (opium, morphine, codeine, heroin, etc.), amphetamines, depressants (barbiturates, methaqualone, tranquilizers, etc.), hallucinogenics (LSC, PCP, etc.), or prescription drugs?  (Y / N)  If Yes, provide the following:"

Indeed, the copy of the SF86 I filled out asked for drug use since my 16th birthday.  The incident I admitted to during the polygraph was at least 3 years before my 16th birthday.

Wow, things sure have changed since the last time I filled out a SF86...

Anonymous,

If Batman's friend is right about the current SF86 format, then you are protected under the constitution and your early drug use is not applicable in the decision whether to grant a security clearance.  I would say that it is a safe bet that you passed.  Congrats and good luck!

Anonymous, GUEST, Bat Cave Guest:

Perhaps there may be some confusion with exactly which "Module" is in question with respect to the SF86 Security Questionnaire.

Example:

Module 22: Your Police Record – Firearms/Explosives offenses

Module 23: Your Police Record – Pending Charges

Module 24: Your Police Record – Alcohol/Drug Offenses

Module 25: Your Police Record – Military Court

Module 26: Your Police Record – Other Offenses

Module 27: Your use of Illegal Drugs and Drug Activity – ILLEGAL USE of DRUGS
Since the age of 16 or in the last 7 years, which ever is shorter, have you illegally used any controlled substance, for example, marijuana, cocaine, crack, cocaine, hashish, narcotics (opium, morphine, codeine, heroin, etc.), amphetamines, depressants, (barbiturates, methaqualone, tranquilizers, etc.), hallucinogenics (LSC, PCP, etc.), or prescription drugs? (Y / N) If yes, provide the following:

Controlled Substance/Prescription Drug Used:__________________________________

From:___________________ To:______________________ (YYYY/MM/DD)

Number of times used______________________________________________________


Module 28: Your use of illegal drugs and drug activity – Use in Sensitive Position
Have you ever illegally used a controlled substance while employed as a law enforcement officer, prosecutor, or courtroom official; while possessing a security clearance; or while in a position directly and immediately affecting public safety? (Y / N) If yes, provide the following:

Controlled Substance/Prescription Drug Used:__________________________________

From:___________________ To:______________________ (YYYY/MM/DD)

Number of times used______________________________________________________


Module 29: Your use of illegal drugs and drug activity – Drug Activity
In the last 7 years, have you been involved in the illegal purchase, manufacture, trafficking, production, transfer, shipping, receiving, or sale of any narcotic, depressant, stimulant, hallucinogen, or cannabis, for your own intended profit or that of another? (Y / N) If yes, no further information is required.



Module 27 specifies within the question; "Since the age of 16 or in the last 7 years",...

Module 28 specifies within the question; "Have you ever illegally used "...

Module 29 specifies within the question; "In the last 7 years"...

Depending on exactly which "Module" is in question; since age 16, or in the last 7 years, or, in the past 7 years are all applicable.


The above referenced information is "verbatim" from my personal 5-year PR, Electronic Personnel Security Questionnaire SF86 Worksheet.

Good luck to you Anonymous.

Respectfully,
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