The Impact of Mobile Phones on Survey Measurement Error

Abstract

We propose a framework of ways in which the different context of mobile interviews—such as multi-tasking, distraction, and the presence of others—and differences inherent in the technology can influence survey responses. The framework also highlights the mechanisms through which these influences operate. We evaluate selected elements of the framework using data from a randomized experiment in which respondents were interviewed by mobile or landline. Measures of interview context were gathered via interviewer evaluation, respondent perception, and direct questioning. We find less social desirability bias with mobile phone interviews, but overall only small differences between mobile and landline interviews.