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participation. Supervisors sometimes contacted managers/owners directly to answer questions or
concerns.
Due to prior efforts by staff who listed the dwelling units, many access problems were
resolved readily. Listers recorded contact information and other steps followed to secure access
so that interviewers could follow the same strategies or build on already-established relations.
Supervisors at the listing stage used special reports on the CMS to monitor access situations;
supervisors for screening and interviewing used the same reports and recorded additional
information to update the reports.
For continuing problems, RTI had a system to generate individualized letters and packets
of information about the project. When required, FIs and FSs provided basic information to RSs,
who then requested the packets. Upon receiving the request, specialists at RTI prepared a cover
letter and assembled materials to fit the situation. The packet was often sent via Federal Express
to increase the importance placed on the contents and ensure timely delivery. A video which
further explained the need for access was also available for inclusion in the packets. To assist in
gaining access to colleges and universities, a special letter signed by the presidents of both Duke
University and the University of North Carolina was available.
For persistent problem situations not resolved through FS/FI efforts or the letters/packets,
"Please Call Us" letters were sent to the SDUs. Special care was taken that calls resulting from
the letters were directed to the authorized RS or FS to set up an appointment so the FI could
return and complete screening, or, in dire situations and with permission, screening information
could be obtained by the FS or RS over the telephone.
Occasionally controlled access problems required assistance beyond the RS level so
RDs—and sometimes even the national field director—became involved.
6.7 Refusal Conversion Procedures
More often than desired, potential respondents exercised their "right to refuse to
participate." The following were in place to try to prevent refusal situations:
• The 2003 Field Interviewer Manual gave specific instructions to the FIs for
introducing both themselves and the study. Additionally, an entire chapter discussed
"Obtaining Participation" and listed the tools available to field staff along with tips
for answering questions and overcoming objections.
• During new-to-project FI training, two sections of the guide covered details for
contacting dwelling units and how to deal with reluctant respondents and difficult
situations. During exercises and mock interviews, trainees were able to practice
answering questions and using letters and handouts to obtain cooperation. An optional
evening workshop entitled "Closing the Deal" provided additional tips for dealing
with respondents.
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