Can we get people to participate in a study of sexual behavior?
OBJECTIVE
Interpreting the results of any study requires careful analysis to determine how selective participation may have influenced the findings. Participation in a study of sexual behavior may be influenced by who is doing the study, who the participants are, what it means to participate, what the study involves, and what is meant by sexual behavior.


OBJECTIVE
Identify potential sources of bias that could be detected by asking the question "Can we get people to participate in a study of sexual behavior?"


METHODS
Review of important examples of participation bias from the literature. Examination of a convenience sample of key studies of sexual behavior to see how they have addressed participation-related issues.


RESULTS
There are many examples of studies where misleading results were caused by participation bias. Many key studies of sexual behavior did not address fully the potential impact of selective participation.


CONCLUSIONS
No study is completely without participation bias. Understanding potential sources of bias is essential when designing a study or interpreting the results.
Peterman
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TA
Division of STD/HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA.
D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012107:Research Design; D015983:Selection Bias; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D014342:Truth Disclosure