Challenge 11
Inaccuracies of self-reported data among youth
Self-reported data is always challenging. Some youth have difficulty remembering their behaviors, some underreport and others exaggerate their behaviors. Private behaviors, such as sexual behaviors, are not observable by researchers so surveys rely on self reported behaviors to determine if the program has achieved its objectives, such as increased condom use or decreased sexual activity.
Strategy
Some studies have tried to determine if youth are more honest reporting their intimate behaviors by talking with a researcher, writing responses in a survey or entering responses using a computer or personal digital assistant. The results are inconclusive on whether one is better than another.
At this point, the best you can do is ask for their honest answers and assure them that their responses will be kept confidential and anonymous. Remember also to ensure that when you are collecting data with young people to seek out appropriate, private locations.