The application blank: How honest are the responses?

Abstract

Studied 111 application blank responses, provided by prospective applicants for positions as nurses aides, and data from their previous employers. Results show substantial disagreement between the 2 sources. In 2 categories, duration of previous employment and previous salary earned, the 2 sources disagreed on 57% of the cases. In these categories, the typical applicant overestimated his duration and his previous salary. Also, there was substantial disagreement on the reason for leaving the previous job. Data appear to support the hypothesis that inaccurate information is likely to appear on the application blank as well as in the interview situation. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)