Experimental methods in sociology used in sensitive questions: List experiment example

Abstract

. This article explores experimental methods in sociology that are used to address
sensitive questions. Sensitive questions are those that involve socially stigmatized or taboo
subjects, such as illegal activities, personal beliefs, and sexual behavior. The use of traditional
survey methods to investigate sensitive questions may lead to response bias or social desirability
bias. To overcome these limitations, scientists have developed innovative experimental methods,
such as the list experiment.
The list experiment is a survey-based technique that provides respondents with a list of items
and asks them how many items on the list they have experienced or endorse. Unlike direct
questioning, this method allows respondents to express their opinions anonymously and reduces
social desirability bias. Moreover, the list experiment can estimate the prevalence of sensitive
behaviors or attitudes without revealing individual responses, which makes it particularly
useful in studying politically or socially sensitive topics.
This article describes the theoretical foundations, design, and implementation of the list
experiment. With the help of the VOSviewer program, a bibliographic analysis was carried
out based on Scopus database. At the same time, it discusses the advantages and limitations
of this method compared to other experimental techniques and highlights some of its practical
applications in sociological research. Overall, this article provides a comprehensive overview of
the list experiment and its contribution to the advancement of sociological research.