Identifying and Gaining Access to Hidden Populations (From Collection and Interpretation of Data From Hidden Populations, P 4-11, 1990, Elizabeth Y Lambert, ed. -- See NCJ-128609)

• NCJ Number: 128610
• Author(s): W W Wiebel
• Date Published: 1990
• Length: 8 pages
• Corporate Author: National Institute on Drug Abuse
• Sale Source: Superintendent of Documents, GPO; National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: NIDA Research Monograph 98

Annotation

Qualitative methodologies in the field of substance abuse research contribute to an understanding of the continually evolving patterns and trends of substance abuse behavior and provide pragmatic information to policymakers and professional interest groups. In order to obtain data and provide interventions, hidden populations must be successfully identified and accessed.

Abstract

In this context, the term hidden populations refers to a subset of the general populations whose members are not readily identified through existing knowledge or sampling capabilities. Sources available to answer research questions include secondary indicator data, institutional and professional authorities, and indigenous informants. Once available sampling frames and unit of analysis are evaluated, ethnographers must gain access to the target population through immersion in the social scene, developing a rapport with their subjects and legitimacy for the actual research. Two factors which seem imperative in maximizing access to hidden populations include the use of community-based field stations and the payment of subject fees. 8 references