The Use of a "No Opinion" Option in Fixed-Alternative Response

question 37

Multiple Choice

The use of a "no opinion" option in fixed-alternative response questions is

• A)not necessary because individuals will always express an opinion.
• B)recommended by all leading authorities on questionnaire design.
• C)not recommended because it allows individuals to "take the easy way out".
• D)appropriate if pretesting or exploratory research reveals that 20-25% of the respondents either don't know or don't hold an opinion.
• E)not likely to affect the results of the survey.

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Definitions:

Mediation

A voluntary and confidential process in which a neutral third party helps disputing parties reach a mutually satisfactory settlement.

Arbitration

A method of resolving disputes outside the courts, in which a neutral third party makes a binding decision.

Summary Jury Trial

A shortened, advisory jury process used as an alternative dispute resolution technique, where the verdict is not legally binding.