Snowball Sampling in Drug Research
Snowball sampling is often used for at-risk populations. Discuss how you might use this sampling method to do research on drug users.
Snowball sampling is a non-probability sampling method where researchers start with a small group of participants who then recruit others from their social networks. This method is particularly useful for studying hard-to-reach or stigmatized populations, such as drug users.
1. Identifying Initial Participants (“Seeds”)
- The researcher begins by identifying a few trusted, eligible participants through outreach programs, harm reduction services, or healthcare providers.
- These “seed” participants must meet inclusion criteria (e.g., active drug users, former users, or users of specific substances).
2. Recruitment Through Social Networks
- Each initial participant is asked to refer others within their community who meet the study criteria…
Snowball sampling is a non-probability sampling method where researchers start with a small group of participants who then recruit others from their social networks. This method is particularly useful for studying hard-to-reach or stigmatized populations, such as drug users.
1. Identifying Initial Participants (“Seeds”)
- The researcher begins by identifying a few trusted, eligible participants through outreach programs, harm reduction services, or healthcare providers.
- These “seed” participants must meet inclusion criteria (e.g., active drug users, former users, or users of specific substances).
2. Recruitment Through Social Networks
- Each initial participant is asked to refer others within their community who meet the study criteria…
Snowball sampling is a non-probability sampling method where researchers start with a small group of participants who then recruit others from their social networks. This method is particularly useful for studying hard-to-reach or stigmatized populations, such as drug users.
1. Identifying Initial Participants (“Seeds”)
- The researcher begins by identifying a few trusted, eligible participants through outreach programs, harm reduction services, or healthcare providers.
- These “seed” participants must meet inclusion criteria (e.g., active drug users, former users, or users of specific substances).
2. Recruitment Through Social Networks
- Each initial participant is asked to refer others within their community who meet the study criteria…
