Comparison between Self-administered Questionnaire and Computer-assisted Self-interview for Supplemental Survey Nonresponse

Abstract

This article examines the correlates of nonresponse for self-administered questionnaire (SAQ) sections by comparing two General Social Survey (GSS) years, 2000 and 2002, during which the GSS switched the paper-and-pencil personal interview (PAPI) and SAQ to the computer-assisted personal interview (CAPI) and computer-assisted self-administered interview (CASI) format. The authors find that CASI not only lowers the supplemental response rate but also changes the dynamics of who responds. Unlike PAPI and SAQ data collection in 2000, even those aged 45-64 were less likely to respond to the CASI supplemental survey compared to CAPI in 2002. Compared to Whites, Blacks and other ethnic groups were more likely to be nonrespondents with CASI. Researchers should be more attentive to the potential bias of supplemental nonresponse in CASI.