A methodological comparison of survey techniques in obtaining self-reports of condom-related behaviors

To obtain more accurate accounts of sexual attitudes and practices, researchers must explore innovative ways to overcome the reluctance of individuals to disclose sensitive and perhaps incriminating information about themselves. The differences among selected modes of inquiry and survey techniques used to gather self-reports about sensitive contraceptive behaviors among young adults were examined in this study. Comparisons were made between the randomized response versus the direct-inquiry survey techniques and personal interview versus self-administered modes of inquiry relative to the reporting of sensitive condom-related sexual practices of 352 students at a large northeastern university. Findings indicated that the "controlled-choice" randomized-response technique was less effective in obtaining self-reports about condom-related practices than were direct-inquiry techniques. Recommendations for investigations are proposed.