Drug Tests and Polygraphs: Essential Tools or Violations of Privacy?

School Library Journal

Gr 8-12 Drawing from a wide variety of current sources, Jussim presents both sides of the controversy, but in effect builds a more powerful case against most testing. He cites numerous cases from many sectors of public and private life in which the mandatory test results have been inaccurate, misleading, and possibly unconstitutional. The text, written in an unemotional, straightforward style, is divided into two parts. The first section, devoted to drug testing, explains common procedures such as urinalysis and then delves extensively into the legal reasons why such examinations may violate privacy rights. Political and social issues are also raised. Lie detector tests receive similar treatment in the second section. In a concluding chapter, Jussim reiterates the dangers of drug and polygraph testing and draws parallels between them in terms of possible abuses. Those readers who require more information about testing in specific areas may have to seek other sources, such as Jonathan Harris' Drugged Athletes: the Crisis in American Sports (Four Winds, 1987). The Jussim book, however, provides a good overview which is unique for its reading level. Senior high students doing research papers will find the excellent bibliography very helpful. Sue A. Norkeliunas, Arlington Senior High School, LaGrangeville, N.Y.