Drug Testing

Drug addiction and use are not novel evils in the community, and are as old as human kind. Human beings have always had a desire to eat or drink substances that make them feel relaxed, stimulated, or euphoric (Mangione 116). History shows that persons living in the past two centuries have used opium; in the last century, cocaine has been increasingly used for recreational purposes. This is evidenced by the opium war in Asia and the cocaine patent tragedies in the 20th century (Hughes 23). Using drugs or substances may cause harmful or destructive effects to both the user as well as the surrounding community. The consequences or the harmful effects of drugs may depend on the type and quantity of the drug, the duration of drug use, and/or the metabolic states of the particular individual (Crouch, et al 1342).

Addiction to drugs or substances can influence society in different ways. For example, in the workplace, they can adversely affect attendance and decrease productivity. Workplace accidents are also more common among drug abusers and can pose a danger to self or others. They may also increase the likelihood of workplace theft, or adversely impact public relations, corporate image, legal liability and, above all, safety (Mangione 112).

Interestingly enough, drug testing has become paramount in the workplace, sports arena, and the school settings. Drug testing has its pros and cons that make interesting conversations in the halls of many legislatures and in the classrooms of our nation's schools and universities. Job expectations clearly mandate that workers, students, or paid athletes show up at the workplace, school, or athletic arena in the best physical and mental condition as possible in order to provide maximum benefit for the companies, team or school. According to a recent article published in a journal from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU, 2011), “Drug testing is up 277 percent from 1987 - despite the fact that random drug testing is unfair, often inaccurate and unproven as a means of stopping drug uses”. Still yet, the ACLU contended that companies can require drug testing. Recent information from the United States Department of Labor (2011) stated, “A large percentage of large companies such as Fortune 500 require drug testing for their applicant and employed employees.” Early drug prevention of students from the onset can possibly eliminate the high percentages of drug use by older workers and highly paid athletes who have already graduated and have entered the workforce. The prevailing economic conditions that exist within the United States, the tremendous downsizing in the job market and joblessness have caused some people to ask if drug testing is a viable prerequisite for the workforce. This position paper will illustrate documented pros and cons of drug testing and conclude that drug testing is a necessary requirement in the school, workplace, and the athletic arena.

Drug prevention must start with the student who is a user. Schools that are conducting random student drug testing are doing so to possibly curb drug abuse. Early drug ...