What is a potential risk of not providing value in exchange for participant engagement?

Not providing value in exchange for participant engagement can indeed lead to participant disengagement and mistrust. Participants often contribute their time, personal information, and insights hoping that their involvement is meaningful and recognized. When they perceive a lack of value in their participation—be it in the form of compensation, acknowledgment, or tangible benefits—they may feel that their contribution is unappreciated or even exploitative.

This perception can foster feelings of dissatisfaction and mistrust toward the researchers or the research process itself. Individuals who feel undervalued may withdraw from further participation or may not provide accurate or thoughtful responses, potentially compromising the integrity and validity of the research. Ensuring that participants feel that their engagement is valued helps maintain a positive relationship, encourages their ongoing participation, and ultimately enhances the research outcomes.