Do you like Alice in Wonderland? And other dubious job screening questions - The scoop - Careers 2002 - Brief Article

As employers become increasingly nervous about security issues, more companies are considering using job applicant screening exams. Since September 11, companies such as Psychological Resources and Computer Psychologist that provide psychological assessment tests have reported a rise in interest. The rests help employers measure worker qualities like aggressiveness, ability to work with others, leadership, and motivation.

Critics of these exams, however, say the tests can be discriminatory and an invasion of privacy. One such test led to a law suit against Target Stores, which was settled in 1993. The plaintiff's attorney, Brad Seligman, calls Target's test "the gold standard of intrusiveness."

Here are a few of the yes/no questions from that now defunct test:

* I prefer a shower to a bath.

* I am fascinated with fire.

* I like tall women.

* Evil spirits possess me at times.

* I loved my mother.

* I like Alice In Wonderland by Lewis Carroll.

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