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Conducting a client-focused survey using e-mail
1William F. Connell School of Nursing at Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA. readca@.edu.
Computers, Informatics, Nursing : CIN
|November 3, 2004
Summary
This study explored psychological responses in phenylketonuria (PKU) gene carriers. Email recruitment and surveys were efficient, but privacy concerns may have impacted participation rates.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Genetics
- Public Health
Background:
- Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a rare genetic disorder.
- Understanding the psychological impact on gene carriers is crucial for support.
- Carrier status can evoke unique emotional and social responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the psychological responses of individuals carrying the gene for phenylketonuria (PKU).
- To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of using email for participant recruitment and data collection in genetic studies.
- To explore researcher-participant interaction opportunities via email compared to web-based surveys.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an email listserv for participant recruitment and survey administration.
- Collected data on psychological responses from PKU gene carriers.
- Employed email for sending electronic gift certificates and disseminating study findings.
Main Results:
- The majority of participant responses were received within 24 hours of the recruitment call.
- Most surveys (n=83) were returned via email within 5 days.
- Email facilitated greater researcher-participant interaction than web-based surveys.
Conclusions:
- Email is an efficient tool for recruiting participants and collecting data in genetic studies.
- A 51% survey return rate suggests potential participant concerns regarding email privacy.
- Further research is needed to address privacy issues in email-based genetic research.