Respondents

Respondents are individuals who provide information in response to questions asked in research studies, surveys, or interviews. In social science and market research, they are the units of analysis who supply self-reported data on attitudes, behaviors, experiences, or characteristics. Respondents are usually selected from a defined population using sampling methods, and their responses are analyzed to draw inferences about the population or to test hypotheses. Data are collected through various modes, such as online questionnaires, telephone interviews, face-to-face interviews, or mail surveys, with attention to ethical standards including informed consent and confidentiality.

Quality considerations: Response quality depends on respondent comprehension, memory, and willingness to answer truthfully. Common issues include nonresponse bias, where selected individuals do not participate, and measurement error from poorly worded questions or social desirability. Researchers mitigate these risks through careful questionnaire design, pretesting, neutral wording, randomization of items, and, when appropriate, statistical weighting and imputation.

Legal usage: In law, a respondent is the party who answers or defends a petition or complaint, such as the respondent in a divorce or a habeas corpus case. The term contrasts with petitioner, plaintiff, or appellant, depending on jurisdiction. The broader use may also apply in data collection contexts to emphasize the respondent’s rights and responsibilities, especially regarding consent and privacy.