Interviewer effects on self-reported substance use among homeless persons

Abstract

This study examines respondent editing of survey responses to questions regarding substance use. Previous research has identified several types of interviewer effects that may be associated with respondent editing, including direct and social distance effects. Little is known, however, regarding how these potential effects may influence self-reported substance use behavior. Data analyzed for this study were collected as part of a survey of substance use among homeless persons conducted in Cook Country, Illinois. A total of 481 respondents were sampled at random in emergency and transitional shelters, soup kitchens, drop-in centers, and single room occupancy (SRO) hotels. Overall, a direct, gender-based effect was observed, with homeless respondents of both genders more willing to reveal substance use behaviors to male interviewers. Some race- and age-related direct effects were also identified, with White and older interviewers obtaining more reports of substance use. These findings yield important evidence regarding respondent editing of self-reported substance use and have implications for the common practice of demographically matching interviewers and respondents.