Conferences

ARK is proposing a special session within the 2009 ESRA conference relating to surveying sensitive subjects. This relates to both meanings of the word ‘subjects’. Firstly, what are the issues that must be taken into account when surveying vulnerable or special groups such as children? Secondly, what are the issues involved when including sensitive topics in questionnaires?

ARK carries out three public attitudes surveys in Northern Ireland, one with adults aged 18 or over, one with 16 year olds, and one with 10-11 year olds in school. At a technical level, each of these surveys necessitates a different sampling methodology and mode of administration. At a questionnaire design level, each involves different themes, complexity of language and use of graphic interfaces.

This session will explore some of the issues inherent in surveying different groups, and the inclusion of particular topics. Thus, papers of interest in this session may include:

- Ethical issues relating to surveying vulnerable groups, such as children

- Questionnaire design for vulnerable groups, such as children

- Ethical issues relating to sensitive topics, such as suicide and deliberate self-harm

- How to find hidden populations