The Test for Espionage and Sabotage (TES) is a specialized polygraph examination method used by federal agencies to assess whether individuals have engaged in espionage, sabotage, or other activities that threaten national security. Developed to address specific concerns within the realm of counterintelligence, the TES is designed to detect deception related to unauthorized disclosures of classified information, foreign contacts, and sabotage efforts. The test is an integral part of personnel screening programs for individuals in sensitive positions or with access to critical information.

Purpose and Objectives of TES

The TES is primarily used to:

  • Detect individuals involved in espionage, sabotage, or unauthorized disclosures of sensitive information.
  • Uncover potential foreign contacts or relationships that could compromise national security.
  • Act as a deterrent to individuals who might engage in activities harmful to the United States government or its defense infrastructure.

This test is a key element in the polygraph screening process for those seeking or holding high-level security clearances within government agencies or defense-related sectors.

Structure of the TES Examination

The TES employs a well-defined structure that is similar to other polygraph formats, but with a heightened focus on security threats. The test typically comprises the following question types:

  1. Relevant Questions (R): These questions are directly related to national security concerns, such as involvement in espionage or unauthorized disclosures of classified information. The goal is to evoke a physiological response that indicates whether the examinee is being deceptive.
    • Example: “Have you ever knowingly provided classified information to a foreign agent?”
    • Example: “Have you ever engaged in activities to sabotage U.S. military operations?”
  2. Directed-Lie Comparison Questions (DLC): The examinee is instructed to lie intentionally in response to these questions. DLC questions help create a benchmark for analyzing the physiological responses to relevant questions. They are unrelated to espionage or sabotage but are designed to induce a physiological reaction that can be used for comparison.
    • Example: “Did you ever lie to your supervisor about being late for work?”
  3. Sacrifice Relevant Questions (SR): These questions are transitional and designed to introduce the relevant issue without causing significant stress. They help the examinee ease into the more critical relevant questions by addressing the topic in a non-confrontational way.
    • Example: “Regarding your security clearance, do you intend to answer the following questions truthfully?”
  4. Irrelevant Questions (I): These questions have no emotional or investigative weight and are used to establish a baseline physiological response from the examinee. They are neutral and are not scored.
    • Example: “Is your first name John?”
  5. Symptomatic Questions (SYM): Symptomatic questions are designed to uncover whether the examinee has concerns about unrelated issues that may affect their test performance. These questions ensure that the focus remains on espionage and sabotage.
    • Example: “Are you afraid I will ask you a question about something else you are worried about?”

Test Phases and Question Review

Before the TES begins, the polygraph examiner conducts a thorough pretest interview with the examinee. During this phase, the examiner reviews all of the questions with the examinee to ensure they understand the purpose of the test and the nature of the questions. This step is critical for reducing any anxiety that could influence physiological responses unrelated to deception.

The pretest phase also serves to establish rapport between the examiner and the examinee, ensuring the individual feels comfortable enough to provide honest answers. Any potential misunderstandings or concerns are addressed at this time, so the test can proceed smoothly.

Sub-Test Design in TES

The TES examination is typically divided into multiple sub-tests, each addressing different aspects of espionage and sabotage concerns. These sub-tests allow the examiner to focus on specific issues within the broader context of national security threats. Each sub-test includes a pair of relevant questions along with comparison and irrelevant questions to measure the examinee’s physiological responses.

Examples of Sub-Test Themes:

  • Foreign Contacts Sub-Test: Focuses on whether the examinee has had unauthorized contact with foreign nationals.
    • Relevant Questions: “Have you ever provided classified information to a foreign government?”
    • Comparison Questions: “Did you ever lie about a trivial matter?”
  • Sabotage Sub-Test: Investigates whether the examinee has engaged in or facilitated sabotage efforts against U.S. military operations or defense-related infrastructure.
    • Relevant Questions: “Have you ever intentionally damaged government property to disrupt operations?”
    • Comparison Questions: “Have you ever lied to avoid being reprimanded at work?”

Data Collection and Charting

During the test, physiological data such as heart rate, skin conductivity, and respiratory rate are recorded while the examinee answers the relevant, comparison, and irrelevant questions. The TES typically consists of three charts, each containing a sequence of questions. The examiner may ask the same relevant and comparison questions multiple times, but in different orders, to gather consistent data across the charts.

The physiological responses are then analyzed using a numerical scoring system, such as the 7-position scale, to determine whether the examinee has shown significant physiological reactions to the relevant questions. This scoring system helps differentiate between truthful and deceptive responses based on the intensity of the physiological changes measured during the test.

Scoring and Interpretation

After the test data is collected, the examiner evaluates the physiological responses to determine whether the examinee is likely engaging in deception. This process involves comparing the examinee’s responses to the relevant questions with their responses to the directed-lie comparison questions.

  • Significant Response (SR): If the examinee exhibits a greater physiological response to relevant questions than to comparison questions, the examiner may conclude that the individual is attempting to conceal information.
  • No Significant Response (NSR): If the examinee’s physiological responses to the relevant questions are consistent with their responses to the comparison questions, this suggests that the individual is not being deceptive.
  • No Opinion (NO): If the data is inconclusive or does not meet the thresholds for either SR or NSR, the examiner may render a “No Opinion” conclusion, indicating that the test did not produce clear results.

Applications of TES in National Security

The TES plays a crucial role in safeguarding national security by ensuring that individuals with access to sensitive information are properly vetted. The test is used in various contexts, including:

  • Initial Security Clearances: Individuals applying for security clearances are often required to undergo the TES to ensure they have no ties to foreign intelligence services or involvement in espionage or sabotage.
  • Periodic Security Clearance Renewals: Those holding high-level clearances are periodically required to undergo polygraph testing, including the TES, to verify their continued loyalty and adherence to national security protocols.
  • Counterintelligence Investigations: In cases where unauthorized disclosures or sabotage are suspected, the TES is used to determine whether an individual has engaged in activities that compromise national security.

Conclusion

The Test for Espionage and Sabotage (TES) is a specialized polygraph examination method designed to detect deception in individuals who pose a threat to national security. Its focused structure, rigorous question design, and comprehensive data analysis make it an invaluable tool for federal agencies tasked with protecting classified information and ensuring the integrity of sensitive government operations. By identifying individuals who may be involved in espionage, sabotage, or unauthorized disclosures, the TES plays a pivotal role in maintaining the security and defense of the United States.

When administered by trained examiners and used alongside other investigative tools, the TES is highly effective in safeguarding national interests and detecting potential security breaches. Its continued use ensures that individuals with access to critical information are thoroughly vetted and held accountable for their actions.

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