Randomized Inquiry vs. Conventional Questionnaire Method in Estimating Drug Usage Rates through Mail Surveys.

摘要

This study compared the conventional questionnaire and the Randomized Inquiry (RI) technique as methods of conducting a mail survey of illicit drug use. The latter technique is designed specifically to provide maximum assurance of anonymity. Also compared was the effect of advance notice upon return rate. Questionnaires of the appropriate type were sent to random samples of junior enlisted and junior officer personnel in the conus Army. Total number of target research subjects was approximately 4,000. Illustrative findings were that (1) Return rates were significantly higher for the conventional questionnaire; (2) Advance notice enhanced the return rate for officers, but not for enlisted men; and (3) Reported drug usage rates were not significantly related to the method of data acquisition.