L-- Participant bias

Question 1

Dominant respondent bias

Answer 1

One of the participant influences the response of the others, especially during focused group interview setting

Avoid:
• Keep dominant respondent in check
• Give participants equal opportunities to speak in a safe and comfortable environment

Question 2

Acquiescence bias

Answer 2

A tendency to give positive answers. When participants are acquiescent by nature.

Avoid:
• Not asking leading questions
• Open-ended questions–neutral and focused on the opinions of the participant

Question 3

Social desirability bias

Answer 3

A tendency to response in a certain way in order to be liked
When the participants want to be accepted by a social group.

Ways to avoid:
• Phrase the question in a non-judgemental way
• Ask questions about a third person

Question 4

Sensitivity bias

Answer 4

A tendency of participants to answer regular questions honestly, but distort their responses to questions on sensitive subjects.

When participants feel uncomfortable to talk about sensitive subject matter and want to hide secrets by giving incorrect information.

Ways to avoid:
• Create a good rapport with the participant
• Build trust between the participant and the researcher
• Ensure confidentiality