A Test of the Forced-Alternative Random Response Questionnaire Technique.

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Abstract:

This study tested a variation of the random response surveying strategy designed for lengthy questionnaires to be used in group administrations or mail surveys. A questionnaire was mailed to a random sample of 3000 company grade officers divided into three groups. One group received a conventional questionnaire. The second group received a random response questionnaire FARR-50 technique using a 50 likelihood of having to respond honestly. The last group received a random response questionnaire FARR-83 technique using a 83.3 likelihood of having to respond honestly. It was found that subjects respond more honestly, i.e. with greater estimated incidence of true positive response, to sensitive questions when given a low level of protection provided by the FARR-83 technique. Rates of response and estimated levels of prevalence were higher when subjects were given some protection than when they were forced to answer the questions honestly more frequently--even though the latter afforded greater protection.

Author(s):
Reaser, Joel M. ; Hartsock, Steven ; Hoehn, Arthur J.
Author Organization(s):
HUMAN RESOURCES RESEARCH ORGANIZATION ALEXANDRIA VA
Descriptive Note:
Technical rept.,
Pagination:
0043

Security Markings

DOCUMENT & CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY

Distribution:
Approved For Public Release

RECORD

Collection: TR
Identifying Numbers
Report Number(s):
HumRRO-TR-75-9
Contract/Grant Number(s):
DAHC19-73-C-0004
Task Number(s):
2Q162108A74000
Project Number(s):
DA-2-Q-162108-A-740
 Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_8.2.5_Strengthen Global Defense Posture; JCA_8.2_Shape; JCA_8_Building Partnerships
Communities of Interest:
No COI(s) Identified
Descriptor(s):
*GROUP DYNAMICS, *PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT, *OFFICER PERSONNEL, COST EFFECTIVENESS, ARMY PERSONNEL, SOCIAL COMMUNICATION, ATTITUDES(PSYCHOLOGY), SURVEYS, RESPONSE, PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTS, QUESTIONNAIRES, JOB SATISFACTION, COLLECTING METHODS, INFORMATION PROCESSING, DRUG ABUSE, RACE RELATIONS
Field(s)/Group(s):
Information Science, Psychology, Personnel Management and Labor Relations, Test Facilities, Equipment and Methods
Keyword(s):
Secure information, Mail surveys, FARR(Forced alternatives random response), Forced alternatives random response, Social problems
Report Date:
1975 Jun 01