Question

The article "Workers Grow More Dissatisfied" in the San Luis Obispo Tribune (August 22,2002 ) states that "a survey of 5000 people found that while most Americans continue to find their jobs interesting, and are even satisfied with their commutes, a bare majority like their jobs." This statement was based on the fact that only 51 percent of those responding to a mail survey indicated that they were satisfied with their jobs. Describe any potential sources of bias that might limit the researcher's ability to draw conclusions about working Americans based on the data collected in this survey.

Short answer

Possible sources of bias include nonresponse bias (if respondents have different views than non-respondents), selection bias (if the sample doesn't represent all working Americans), and the questioning effect (if the wording of questions influences answers).

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Sampling Method

Understand the method of collection of data used by the researcher. In this case, the researcher used a mail survey to generate responses from the participants. Analyze this method and its potential for bias.

Possible Nonresponse Bias

Consider the possibility that the sampled individuals who chose not to participate or could not be reached might have different views about job satisfaction compared to those who did respond. Nonresponse bias may happen if there's a significant difference between the characteristics of respondents and non-respondents.

Consider Selection Bias

Selection bias could occur if the selection method resulted in a sample that doesn't accurately represent all working Americans. There may be bias if the researcher only sent the survey to a specific demographic and not to a comprehensive cross-section of the working population.

The Influence of the Questioning Effect

The questioning effect could introduce bias. This could happen if the way a question is posed influences the answers received. If the survey questions about job satisfaction were leading or suggestive, they could have influenced responses.