This study represents a test of whether or not the identity of a survel or influences responses to an anon ymous, self-administered questionnaire. Identical questionnaires were distributed to 105 police officers. One group of officers received a cover letter identifying the researcher as a graduate student. A second group was given a cover letterfrom afellow law enforcement officer. Examination of the officers' replies to 25 questionnaire items suggests that the identity of the researcher does not influence responses. A number of possible explanations of the findings are explored, and directions for further research are considered.
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