Research - Bulletin Boards


		Bulletin Boards In May, 2005 four simultaneous, internet-based focus groups were conducted over five days by Harris Interactive. The focus groups were divided by gender (female or male) and age range (21-45 or 46-60). Fifty-nine likely 2006 midterm voters participated. Internet-based focus groups (sometimes called Bulletin Boards) are a newer way to gauge public opinion on social issues. We chose this method because these groups allow for greater geographic dispersal of participants -- anyone who has access to a computer and the Internet can participate. In addition, respondents are able to participate at their convenience, which increases response rates. Online groups also minimize the opportunity for individuals to dominate /persuade other respondents. These groups also elicit candid responses and reactions to concepts and research questions, and discussions are often less constrained by the social conventions present in traditional face-to-face focus groups. Our goal was to gauge understanding of and experience with six key issues: Birth Control/Contraception; End-of-Life; Stem Cell research; Comprehensive Sex Education; Emergency Contraception; and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccine. Key Findings: Age was found to be a significant factor in how salient each of the six issues were to people. For example, younger people were less interested in end-of-life issues and older people were less interested in birth control. Deeper understanding gained of how people view our target issues in terms of benefits, feelings and values. Key values emerged among a list of 14 values tested: On comprehensive sex education, top value is personal responsibility On birth control, top values are personal responsibility, freedom, peace of mind, and self-determination On emergency contraception, top values are personal responsibility and peace of mind On HPV vaccine, top values are life and peace of mind On stem cell, research top values are life, promise and hope On end-of-life issues, top values are peace of mind, respect of others and privacy For more information, contact info@ccmc.org.