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Web-based administration of a personality questionnaire: comparison with traditional methods
1University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA. robnd@uh.edu
Behavior Research Methods, Instruments, & Computers : a Journal of the Psychonomic Society, Inc
|January 14, 2000
Summary
Web-based questionnaires yield comparable data to paper-and-pencil formats, though some differences in self-focused rumination were noted. This research validates online survey methods for psychological studies.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Research Methodology
- Digital Health
Background:
- The World-Wide Web offers potential for questionnaire-based research.
- Concerns exist regarding data comparability between web-based and traditional paper-and-pencil questionnaires.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the equivalence of the Ruminative Responses Scale (RRS) when administered via web-based versus paper-and-pencil formats.
- To compare data obtained from introductory psychology, upper-level psychology, and non-psychology students.
Main Methods:
- The Ruminative Responses Scale was administered to participants in both web-based and paper-and-pencil formats.
- Participants included students from various academic levels and disciplines.
- Data were analyzed for internal consistency and differences across groups and formats.
Main Results:
- Internal consistency coefficients were comparable between the web and paper-and-pencil formats.
- Participants in the web sample reported higher levels of self-focused rumination.
- Women in the web sample reported more self-focused rumination compared to women in other groups.
- Results from the web sample did not vary based on access location.
Conclusions:
- Web-based questionnaire research findings are comparable to those from standard procedures.
- The computerized web interface may enhance self-disclosure in research participants.
- Online survey methods are a viable and potentially advantageous tool for psychological research.