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Accuracy of Audio Computer-Assisted Self-Interviewing (ACASI) and Self-Administered Questionnaires for the Assessment of Sexual Behavior

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Abstract

This study examined the accuracy of two retrospective methods and assessment intervals for recall of sexual behavior and assessed predictors of recall accuracy. Using a 2 [mode: audio-computer assisted self-interview (ACASI) vs. self-administered questionnaire (SAQ)] by 2 (frequency: monthly vs. quarterly) design, young women (N =102) were randomly assigned to one of four conditions. Participants completed baseline measures, monitored their behavior with a daily diary, and returned monthly (or quarterly) for assessments. A mixed pattern of accuracy between the four assessment methods was identified. Monthly assessments yielded more accurate recall for protected and unprotected vaginal sex but quarterly assessments yielded more accurate recall for unprotected oral sex. Mode differences were not strong, and hypothesized predictors of accuracy tended not to be associated with recall accuracy. Choice of assessment mode and frequency should be based upon the research question(s), population, resources, and context in which data collection will occur.

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Acknowledgments

This research was funded by the National Institutes of Health (R01 NR008194 to DMB) as well as the National Institute of Mental Health (K02 MH01582 to MPC). The authors would like to thank the participants of the study for their important contribution to HIV-prevention science.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. RN, School of Nursing, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box SON, Rochester, New York, 14642, USA

    Dianne Morrison-Beedy

  2. Center for Health and Behavior, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York, USA

    Michael P. Carey

  3. Biostatistics Computational Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA

    Xin Tu

Authors
  1. Dianne Morrison-Beedy
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  2. Michael P. Carey
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  3. Xin Tu
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Correspondence to Dianne Morrison-Beedy.

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Morrison-Beedy, D., Carey, M.P. & Tu, X. Accuracy of Audio Computer-Assisted Self-Interviewing (ACASI) and Self-Administered Questionnaires for the Assessment of Sexual Behavior. AIDS Behav 10, 541–552 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10461-006-9081-y

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