Many security clearance holders who work for or on behalf of the U.S. government are required to travel or be deployed overseas in support of U.S. missions. These temporary duty assignments can last anywhere from a few days to a few years depending on the mission. The unfamiliarity with a foreign country or excitement to experience new things while abroad may have a negative impact on your security clearance. This is especially true when federal employees, employees of government contractors, or military members engaged in sexual behavior that is against the rules and regulations that govern security clearances. Have you engaged with a prostitute while in Amsterdam or been given a “happy ending” massage while overseas? If so, you are not alone; however, that behavior may have a significant impact on your security clearance that can lead to a denial or revocation of your security clearance eligibility.
The type of behavior described above falls under the disqualifying conditions for Adjudicative Guideline D – Sexual Behavior. While engaging in sexual behavior misconduct is a serious offense and could negatively impact your security clearance, there are still aspects of mitigation that you can do to quell the government’s concerns. First and foremost, you must cease all activity involving prostitution or any nefarious sexual behavior. While this may seem obvious, the longer you go without engaging in such behavior, the stronger the mitigation is. Additionally, if you have a mental health concern that prompted you to engage in that type of behavior, seeking mental health assistance and obtaining a favorable psychological evaluation will further the mitigating evidence in your favor.
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