Sociodemographic Differences by Survey Mode in a Respondent-Driven Sampling Study of Transgender People in Ontario, Canada

LGBT Health. 2016 Oct;3(5):391-5. doi: 10.1089/lgbt.2015.0046. Epub 2015 Dec 18.

Abstract

Purpose: To describe survey mode uptake and sociodemographic differences by mode among respondents to a respondent-driven sampling survey of transgender people in Ontario, Canada. Survey mode was left to participant choice.

Methods: Data were collected from 433 transgender Ontarians in 2009-2010 through a self-administered questionnaire, available online, by paper copy, or by telephone with language interpretation.

Results: Paper respondents (9.5%) were significantly more likely to be Aboriginal or persons of color, underhoused, sex workers, and unemployed or receiving disability benefits.

Conclusion: In Canada and similar high-income countries, sampling transgender populations that are diverse with respect to social determinants of health may be best carried out with multimode surveys.

Keywords: Trans PULSE; respondent-driven sampling; survey mode; transgender.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internet*
  • Male
  • Ontario
  • Paper
  • Research Design*
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires*
  • Telephone*
  • Transgender Persons*
  • Translating*

Grants and funding