Submitted by Livia Edegger on
School-based drug testing is a controversial matter. Some researchers believe that drug testing in schools provides a reason to avoid the use of drugs as it will lead to negative consequences in school and it also gives the school the opportunity to identify those who would benefit from treatment. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) believes that there are many concerns with school-based drug testing such as breach of privacy, truancy and negative consequences. These negative consequences include students avoiding school or being punished instead of receiving help. The AAP wishes to promote advice, counselling and in some instances on-site treatment, which would prevent as well as help those with an existing problem. They feel that preventative methods and counselling would be a better use of the limited resources, and that it would have a larger effect than testing alone.
Links:
- Adolescent Drug Testing Policies in Schools - American Academy of Pediatrics