How do you handle potential biases or limitations in your research when studying hard-to-reach or hidden populations?

Sample interview questions: How do you handle potential biases or limitations in your research when studying hard-to-reach or hidden populations?

Sample answer:

Addressing Biases and Limitations in Research on Hard-to-Reach Populations:

• Acknowledge and Disclose Biases: Recognize the potential biases that may arise due to the researcher’s background, beliefs, and assumptions. Disclose these biases in the research report to ensure transparency and allow readers to interpret the findings critically.

• Employ Multiple Methods and Triangulation: Utilize a combination of research methods, such as interviews, observations, surveys, and participant-observation, to gather data from multiple sources. By triangulating the findings, researchers can mitigate bias and enhance the validity of the results.

• Foster Trust and Rapport: Establishing trust with hard-to-reach populations is crucial for gaining access and obtaining reliable data. Researchers should engage in prolonged engagement with the community, demonstrating empathy, respecting cultural norms, and maintaining confidentiality.

• Utilize Snowball Sampling: In cases where direct contact is difficult, researchers can use snowball sampling. This involves recruiting participants through referrals from initial informants within the target population, expanding the researcher’… Read full answer

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