Questionnaires
- Questionnaires are a structured set of questions designed to understand a phenomenon.
- They are often used in the study of human relationships.
- They can be qualitative or quantitative.
Strengths and Limitations of Questionnaires
Note
Strengths
- Cost and time effective.
- Can get a wide sample size.
- Quantitative data leads to comparability.
Note
Limitations
- May be subject to non-response bias.
- Social desirability bias may play a role.
- Cannot follow up on any ambiguities.
Considerations for Questionnaires
- Avoid double-barrelled questions, where you are asking two questions in one.
- Try to keep the questionnaire short to increase completion rate.
- Avoid any jargon or specific terminology.
- Avoid leading and loaded questions.
Example
Leading Question
- Don't you think apple juice is better than orange juice?
Loaded Question
- Have you stopped mistreating your pet?
Double-Barrelled Question
- Do you think President Obama was good for foreign policy and the economy?
Possible Practical Examples
- How do different age groups define love?
- What is the most effective form of communication in friendships?
- How do people show love to someone else?
