An experimental test of the impact of drug-testing programs on potential job applicants' attitudes and intentions

The effect of the presence of a drug-testing program and perceived need for the program (operationalized through accident rates, absenteeism, and theft) on potential job applicants' attitudes toward a company and intention to apply to that company was tested. Descriptions of a potential employer containing manipulations of drug-testing program (present or absent) and need for testing (high or low) were read by 163 undergraduate Ss. Participants had more positive attitudes and intentions toward companies that did not have drug-testing programs and toward companies that did not need a testing program. An interactive effect between drug testing and subjective norms on attitudes toward a company was also significant. These results suggest that organizations should consider the effect of drug-testing programs on potential job applicants and that further research about potential applicants' responses is needed.