Postal Letter

Is it legal to refuse employment if there are scars from self-mutilation on arms? (Arizona)?

I would like to know this because I have gone through depressing times in my life and feel that some of the reasons I have not found a job yet is because I have scars on my arms that wont go away. Is this legally allowed and if so what grounds would it be under i.e. would I be a liability to the company or would it be because they think I would go postal or what? Please help me out. It would be nice to know. so what reason is it legal for than? what is the reasoning behind it. Its not like i can just wish away what i did to myself. Its not like a tattoo where its there because you wanted it there. Its something you do that you regret for the rest of your life and if its gonna effect something as serious as getting a job then theres truly no reason to attempt it at that point. (also long sleeve for an interview works but as soon as any patch of arm is open its pretty much visible in fact i wear a watch and they are above it.) Alright so I guess a Follow up question would be Is it possible that this is the reason why I am finding such a hard time finding work in any field?

Public Comments

1. When you interview, just wear long-sleeved shirts.
2. I have a job and i have huge scars from when i tried to kill myself. I dont think they can do that though.
3. Yes it is legal.
4. Appearance is not a protected EEOC classification. They can refuse to hire you for anything that is not covered by EEOC.
5. It's legal, and here's why: Employers are not obliged to employ anyone, and can refuse employment for almost any reason they like. The only except to that is for characteristics that are protected by law (e.g. it is usually illegal to refuse to employ a woman simply because she's a woman). Otherwise, the employer simply isn't required to give you a job just because you ask for one.
6. Twitch Most people would wear long sleeved shirts so that the scars aren't visible. Just as people with tattoos do to avoid the social and employment issues with them. I suggest that you keep them covered. I suggest that you go to an agency and do a mock interview, or have friends give you a mock interview, to determine where you can improve. Things like smiles, confidence, and humor are critical elements that many people do not exhibit in an interview. They personalize and can set you apart from the others! Soccerref