Experiences of participation in a population ‐based survey on violence: Emotional discomfort, disclosure concerns, and the perceived value of participation among adolescents and young adults

AbstractThe accurate measurement of violence depends on high-quality data collected using methods that ensure participant confidentiality, privacy, and safety. To assess survey participants ’ emotional distress, discomfort, and self-perceived value of participating in the Honduras (2017), El Salvador (2017), Cote d'Ivoire (2018), and Lesotho (2018) Violence Against Children and Youth Surveys, which include sensitive topics such as sexual, physical, and emotional violence, we investig ated individual self-reported distress and perceived value of participation by age, sex, and other demographic factors. We also examined the associations between past experiences of violence and both self-reported distress and perceived value of survey participation. Few individuals reported distres s or concerns about disclosure. Across countries, 82.9% (Cote d'Ivoire) to 96.1% (Honduras) of participants indicated they were not afraid that someone might overhear their answers, 82.5% (Cote d'Ivoire) to 98.0% (El Salvador) said participation was not upsetting or stressful, and 93.3% (Cote d'Ivoi re) to 98.6% (Honduras) said participation was worthwhile. The value of these interviews may exceed the negative feelings that some questions potentially elicit and can contribute to improved responses to victims.

Source: Journal of Traumatic Stress - April 6, 2022 Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Liping Zhu, Marie Kaye Soletchi Seya, Andr és Villaveces, Martha Conkling, Beugre Joseph Trika, Maman Fathim Myriam Kamagate, Francis B. Annor, Greta M. Massetti Tags: RESEARCH ARTICLE Source Type: research