title: iTunes song-gifting is a low-cost, efficient recruitment tool to engage high-risk MSM in internet research.
abstract: This brief report describes methodology and results of a novel, efficient, and low-cost recruitment tool to engage high-risk MSM in online research. We developed an incentivization protocol using iTunes song-gifting to encourage participation of high-risk MSM in an Internet-based survey of HIV status, childhood sexual abuse, and adult behavior and functioning. Our recruitment methodology yielded 489 participants in 4.5 months at a total incentive cost of $1.43USD per participant. The sample comprised a critically high-risk group of MSM, including 71.0 % who reported recent condomless anal intercourse. We offer a "how-to" guide to aid future investigators in using iTunes song-gifting incentives.
authors.affiliation: Department of Mental Health, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
authors.forename: Christine M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Holland
authors.affiliation: Denver Health Managed Care, Denver Health and Hospital Authority, 777 Bannock St., MC 6000, Denver, CO, 80204, USA. natalie.ritchie@dhha.org.
authors.forename: Natalie D
authors.initials: ND
authors.lastname: Ritchie
authors.affiliation: The Family Institute at Northwestern University, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.|Department of Psychology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
authors.forename: Steve N
authors.initials: SN
authors.lastname: Du Bois
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D035841:Behavioral Research / Q000191:economics / Q000295:instrumentation; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000517:prevention & control; D018451:Homosexuality, Male / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D009042:Motivation; D018579:Patient Selection; D012747:Sexual Partners; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
keywords: HIV/STI prevention; Incentives; Internet research methodology; Men who have sex with men; Recruitment