Workplace Attitudes and Chances of Promotion as Influenced by Varying Drug Testing Results
Madison Thalmann
Co-Presenters: Individual Presentation
College: College of Liberal Arts
Major: Psychology/Forensic Psychology
Faculty Research Mentor: Verneda Hamm-Baugh
Abstract:
Drug testing is used in the workplace as a measure of employee quality and safety. However, it can also create a stigma surrounding the world of substance use. Employee reliability and integrity has become more important than ever as the effectiveness, and attitudes towards, drug testing must be taken into consideration. In the present study, three versions of a resume were identical in terms of qualifications, experience, and skills, but differed in reported drug test results: one being passed, one failing due to heroin, and one failing due to marijuana usage. Participants were assigned to read one of the three resumes and indicated their likelihood of recommending the applicant for promotion and the degree to which they would trust the applicant. It was hypothesized that the applicant who passed the drug test would have a higher likelihood of being hired compared to those who failed due to heroin or marijuana use. It is also expected that the type of drug (heroin vs. marijuana) will differentially impact hiring decisions, with heroin being viewed more negatively.