A comparison of the reliability of self-reported drug use and sexual behaviors using computer-assisted versus face-to-face interviewing

sThe purpose of this study was to assess the reliability of responses to HI V risk behavior questions obtained using a voice-enhanced, computer-adminis tered self-interview (audio-CASI) system with touch-screen response compare d with those obtained via face-to-face interviews administered by trained a nd experienced interviewers. Additionally, the study assessed bias that may be attributable to an audio-CASI data collection format The design of the study was a four-group crossover design with random assignment to one of fo ur study conditions: (a) audio-CASI interview at both intake and retest, (b ) face-to-face interview at both intake and retest, (c) audio-CASI intervie w at intake and face-to-face interview at retest, and (d) face-to-face inte rview at intake and audio-CASI interview at retest The study was conducted with a sample of drug users at risk for HIV infection interviewed in noncli nical settings. Data were collected at intake and 48 hours after intake. An alyses show that data obtained using voice-enhanced computer interviewing w ith touch-screen response are reliable and are comparable to data obtained using interviewer administered face-to-face interviews. However, bias was f ound to be associated with data collection format and maybe partially attri butable to the complexity of the questionnaire.