How can a researcher ensure that participation in a survey about a sensitive topic remains voluntary?

Ensuring that participation in a survey, particularly on a sensitive topic, remains voluntary is crucial for ethical research practices. Providing a clear option to skip questions allows participants to have control over their involvement and comfort levels during the survey process. This approach respects the autonomy of the respondents, empowering them to choose which questions they feel comfortable answering without coercion or pressure.

When participants know they can skip questions, they are more likely to engage honestly with the items they choose to answer. This not only protects their rights but also enhances the overall quality of the data collected, as it can lead to more truthful responses when individuals feel safe in their choices.

In contrast, making all questions mandatory could lead to discomfort or distress, particularly when dealing with sensitive issues, causing participants to withdraw from the study or provide disingenuous answers. Limiting survey length can reduce fatigue but does not specifically address the voluntary nature of responding to sensitive questions. Collecting data without respondents' knowledge undermines ethical standards and is not acceptable in responsible research practices.