selfreports

Self-reports are a data collection method in which individuals provide information about themselves. They encompass perceptions, attitudes, behaviors, symptoms, and demographic characteristics. Self-reported data are collected directly from respondents through instruments such as questionnaires, surveys, interviews, or diaries, and are widely used in psychology, sociology, health research, and market research.

Common formats include closed-ended questions with Likert scales, multiple-choice items, or rating scales, as well as open-ended items. Methods range from retrospective recall of past events to real-time reporting via diaries or ecological momentary assessment, and from structured interviews to semi- or unstructured conversations.

Advantages include cost-effectiveness, scalability, and the ability to capture subjective experiences, intentions, and self-perceived symptoms that may not be observable. They allow large samples and flexible instruments and can be administered remotely.

Limitations involve biases such as social desirability, recall errors, memory biases, and misinterpretation of questions. Response and sampling biases, measurement error, and cultural or language differences can affect validity. Self-reports depend on respondents' insight and honesty, and results may be influenced by context and survey design.

Quality relies on instrument validity and reliability, including clear wording, appropriate response scales, pretesting, and standardized administration. Triangulation with objective data or collateral reports can improve validity. Ethical considerations include privacy, informed consent, and data protection.