Which information sources are typically used in DoD suitability investigations?

• A. Only interviews with the subject.
• B. Medical and psychological testing exclusively.
• C. Medical records and fitness assessments.
• D. Background investigations, credit reports, and corroborating information from interviews and references.

Answer: (D)

DoD suitability investigations rely on a broad mix of sources to assess a person’s trustworthiness, reliability, and potential security risk. A background investigation gathers a comprehensive view of past conduct, work history, education, residences, and associations. A credit report adds insight into financial responsibility and any pressures that could create vulnerabilities to coercion or improper influence. Corroborating information from interviews and references provides independent verification of what the subject reports and helps identify inconsistencies or red flags across different sources. Medical records and fitness assessments aren’t the primary tools for judging suitability and are handled separately under privacy and medical guidelines, so they don’t form the standard basis for suitability determinations. Relying solely on interviews leaves out corroborated records and objective data that together give a fuller picture of character and reliability.