Randomized Response and Related Methods ─ Surveying Sensitive Data

Randomized response is an approach to survey data collection specifically designed for sensitive inquiries (such as on criminal behavior). The logic underlying this approach is that the element of chance sufficiently clouds a response so as to protect the respondent when disclosing personal or sensitive data. Randomized Response, first published in 1986, was the first comprehensive introduction and practical guide to randomized response for researchers wishing to use this technique. It is unique in providing social scientists with discussion of statistical analysis techniques for data collected through randomized response. TheSecond Edition includes expanded discussions on issues, methods and considerations for analyzing randomized response data and up-to-date coverage of the application of randomized response in the fields of political science, public health, and business ethics. James Alan Fox reworked his introduction to set the foundation for why randomized response and related methods are needed. He also includes formulas to reinforce elements of randomized response, available software (routines in SAS, Stata, and Mplus), psychological elements of respondents when presented with this method, and application of randomized response in Web surveys. A new chapter discussing methods for analyzing randomized response data in terms of bivariate and multivariate relationship was added, and all references have been updated, and new scholarly works are cited throughout.