Experimental methods in sociology used in sensitive questions: List experiment example

Abstract

This article explores experimental methods in sociology that are used to address sensitive questions. Sensitive questions are those that involve socially stigmatized or taboo subjects, such as illegal activities, personal beliefs, and sexual behavior. The use of traditional survey methods to investigate sensitive questions may lead to response bias or social desirability bias. To overcome these limitations, scientists have developed innovative experimental methods, such as the list experiment. The list experiment is a survey-based technique that provides respondents with a list of items and asks them how many items on the list they have experienced or endorse. Unlike direct questioning, this method allows respondents to express their opinions anonymously and reduces social desirability bias. Moreover, the list experiment can estimate the prevalence of sensitive behaviors or attitudes without revealing individual responses, which makes it particularly useful in studying politically or socially sensitive topics. This article describes the theoretical foundations, design, and implementation of the list experiment. With the help of the VOSviewer program, a bibliographic analysis was carried out based on Scopus database. At the same time, it discusses the advantages and limitations of this method compared to other experimental techniques and highlights some of its practical applications in sociological research. Overall, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the list experiment and its contribution to the advancement of sociological research.