Question

What are some of the response error types in statistical data collection?

Answer 1

Recall errors that occur when a respondent forgets expenditures made during the period covered by the survey (which corresponds to the calendar year) or when a respondent provides an erroneous value because of the time interval that has elapsed between the time of purchase and the date of the interview. Recall errors are probably the survey's largest source of response error, since the reference period is long (12 months) and a wide range of information is requested.

Note: To reduce the magnitude of this type of error, the respondent is also encouraged to consult various documents (bills, bank statements, etc.) so as to provide more accurate data.

Telescopic error which consists of including in the reference period events that occurred before or after it. The use of the calendar year is considered to provide a good marker for the start of the reference period. Furthermore, since the reference period is a long one, telescopic error has less impact.

Responses by proxy can also contribute to response error. The household member who made expenditure is generally best able to report it accurately. This is definitely the case with, say, personal purchases Expenditures reported by an intermediary are more likely to be tainted by response error, and this type of error tends to have a greater effect on certain types of expenditures.

Among other sources of response error, the extent of the respondent's cooperation should not be overlooked. For personal reasons, the respondent may choose not to mention particular expenditures or decide to twist the facts.