Public attitudes towards people with drug dependence and people in recovery: research report

Appendix 2: Technical Appendix

Method:

• The data was collected by an online panel administered by Progressive Scottish Opinion.
• The target group for this research study was a representative sample of the Scottish population.
• The sampling frame used for this study was an online interview administered members of our partner's panel of 30,000+ individuals who have agreed to take part in surveys.
• The target sample size was 1,000 and the final achieved sample size was 1,089.
• Fieldwork was undertaken between 15 ^th and 17 ^th March 2016.
• All persons on the sampling frame were invited to participate in the study.
• Data gathered using self-completion methodologies are validated using the following techniques:
  - Where the data is collected via an internet survey using an access panel, all respondents can only submit one response due to a system of password protection. Our internet panel supplier, YouGov, also complies with the rules of the MRS and ESOMAR.
• All research projects undertaken by Progressive comply fully with the requirements of ISO 20252.

Data Processing and Analysis:

• The final data set was weighted to reflect the Scottish population.
• Quota controls were used to guide sample selection for this study. This means that we cannot provide statistically precise margins of error or significance testing as the sampling type is non-probability. The margins of error outlined below should therefore be treated as indicative, based on an equivalent probability sample.
• The margin of error for the total sample of 1,089 is ±0.86% to ±3.07% (calculated at the 95% confidence level (market research industry standard).
• A computer edit of the data is carried out prior to analysis, involving both range and inter-field checks. Any further inconsistencies identified at this stage are investigated by reference back to the raw data on the questionnaire.
• Where 'other' type questions are used, the responses to these are checked against the parent question for possible up-coding.
• Responses to open-ended questions will normally be spell and sense checked. Where required these responses may be grouped using a code-frame which can be used in analysis.
• Our analysis package is used and a programme set up with the aim of providing the client with useable and comprehensive data. Cross breaks to be imposed on the data are discussed with the client in order to ensure that all information needs are being met.

How to access background or source data

The data collected for this social research publication:

☒ May be made available on request, subject to consideration of legal and ethical factors. Please contact Frances.Warren@gov.scot for further information.