A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

Why might people be reluctant to participate in social surveys?

1. Preference for qualitative data

2. Potential privacy concerns

3. Too much information requested

4. Misrepresentation of data

The correct answer is: Potential privacy concerns

Individuals may be hesitant to participate in social surveys primarily due to potential privacy concerns. In an era where personal information is often subject to misuse or unauthorized access, many people worry about how their data will be handled, stored, or shared. This apprehension can deter them from engaging in research, particularly if they feel the survey questions may lead to sensitive topics that they would prefer to keep private. Concerns about confidentiality and the fear of being identified through their responses can create a barrier to participation. This concern is heightened if participants do not trust the organizations conducting the survey or if they believe that their data could be used for purposes other than what was originally stated. Emphasizing the safeguards around data protection can help mitigate these concerns, but many individuals remain cautious about sharing personal information through surveys. Other factors, such as a preference for qualitative data, may influence how respondents want to provide feedback, but they do not address the fundamental barrier that privacy issues present. Similarly, while some may find the information requested to be excessive or have fears about data misrepresentation, the overarching concern about privacy often stands as the most significant reason for reluctance in survey participation.