Determine whether the survey question is biased. If the question is biased, suggest a better wording.
Do you agree that the town’s ban on skateboarding in parks is unfair?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify whether the question is leading or biased. In this case, the phrase 'Do you agree that the town’s ban on skateboarding in parks is unfair?' is leading because it uses the word 'unfair,' which suggests a negative connotation and may influence the respondent's answer.
2. Understand that a biased question can lead to skewed survey results because it pushes respondents toward a particular answer rather than allowing them to form their own opinion.
3. To make the question unbiased, rephrase it in a neutral manner. For example, instead of using emotionally charged language, ask: 'What is your opinion on the town’s ban on skateboarding in parks?'
4. Ensure that the rephrased question allows for a range of responses, such as 'agree,' 'disagree,' or 'neutral,' to avoid forcing respondents into a specific viewpoint.
5. Review the revised question to confirm that it is free of any leading language or bias and that it encourages honest and unbiased responses from survey participants.

Key Concepts

Survey Bias

Survey bias occurs when the wording of a question influences respondents' answers, leading to skewed results. This can happen if the question is leading, loaded, or assumes a particular viewpoint. Understanding survey bias is crucial for designing questions that elicit honest and unbiased responses.

Question Framing

Question framing refers to how a question is presented and the context in which it is asked. The way a question is framed can significantly affect how respondents interpret it and what answers they provide. Effective framing should be neutral and allow for a range of responses without suggesting a preferred answer.

Neutral Wording

Neutral wording in survey questions means using language that does not favor one side over another. This helps ensure that respondents feel comfortable expressing their true opinions. A well-worded question should avoid emotionally charged terms and provide a balanced view of the issue at hand.