Chapter 6.5, Problem 4E

Solution

To determine: whether the question may be biased or otherwise introduce bias into the survey and describe a way to correct the flaw.

The question is asked presuming the participants know the topic. The topic should first be explained objectively.

A person unrelated to the issue could get more truthful answers.

Given information:

The given statement is “Would you rather watch the latest award-winning movie or just read some book”.

Concept Used:

Biased questions:

Questions that are flawed in a way that leads to inaccurate results are called biased questions. Questions may be biased in several ways:

The wording of the question may encourage or pressure the respondent to answer in a particular way.

The question may be perceived as too sensitive to answer truthfully.

The question may not provide the respondent with enough information to give an accurate opinion.

Calculation:

The questions are asked with the presumption that the survey participant already knows details about the topic.

The bias could be amended if the topic is first represented objectively, and then the question is voiced neutrally.

The interest of the interviewer also affects the answer and their direct involvement in the topic.

If a person perceived as unrelated to the topic asks the question, the participants may answer more truthful.