Defection Denied: A Study of Civilian Support for Insurgency in Irregular War

Researchers can use unobtrusive experimental methods to get reliable responses on sensitive issues in dangerous settings, such as the Russian North Caucasus, by encouraging respondents to express their true preferences and reducing bias while protecting them, local survey organizations, and researchers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 05 May 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Researchers often face the challenge of obtaining reliable responses on sensitive issues in dangerous settings. In such contexts, unobtrusive experimental methods can be invaluable in eliciting answers to risky, taboo, and threatening questions. These methods help social scientists to encourage respondents to express their true preferences while reducing bias and protecting them, local survey organizations, and researchers.

The foundation of this Element is an original study conducted in the Russian North Caucasus in Dagestan, which assesses theories about wartime attitudes toward militant groups. The study found that sticky identities, security threats, and economic dependence significantly curb the ability of civilians to switch loyalties.

To overcome these challenges, researchers can employ various unobtrusive experimental methods. One such method is the use of vignettes, which present hypothetical scenarios to respondents and allow them to respond based on their preferences. This approach can help to reduce social desirability bias, as respondents are not directly asked about sensitive topics.

Another method is the use of anonymous surveys, which allow respondents to provide their answers without fear of retaliation or discrimination. This can be particularly important in dangerous settings, where respondents may fear reprisals from militant groups or other authorities.

Additionally, researchers can use the technique of respondent-driven sampling, which involves recruiting respondents through existing social networks or community organizations. This approach can help to ensure that the sample is representative of the population and to reduce the risk of bias.

Furthermore, researchers can employ the use of deception, such as hiding the true purpose of the survey or providing false information, to manipulate respondents' responses. This approach can be particularly useful in situations where respondents may be reluctant to provide honest answers due to fear or social pressure.

Finally, researchers can use the technique of focus groups, which involve small groups of respondents who are asked to discuss and provide feedback on sensitive topics. This approach can help to generate insights into the attitudes and beliefs of respondents and to identify potential biases or barriers to obtaining reliable responses.

In conclusion, researchers can obtain reliable responses on sensitive issues in dangerous settings by employing unobtrusive experimental methods such as vignettes, anonymous surveys, respondent-driven sampling, deception, and focus groups. These methods help to reduce bias, protect respondents, and ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data collected.

ISBN-13: 9781009016452