Abstract
Missing values are nearly inescapable within social science research. The problem of missing data is especially troubling in longitudinal and intensive longitudinal studies when participants miss an entire collection cycle compared to item nonresponse. The present study examines some of the contextual influences of missed study participation using unobtrusive measures of experience in conjunction with the experience sampling method (ESM). A sample of 66 participants generated 2,940 observations across a 7-day study, yielding a missing response rate of 34%. Multilevel binary logistic regression was used to estimate the probability of missing the study participation signal based upon study time and physical activity states. Results indicate that the probability of missing collection signals increases throughout the duration of the study and with high levels of physical activity. The strongest predictor of missed participation occurred when participants’ activity monitors were set to “asleep” mode. Implications of these findings and recommendations for future ESM studies are discussed.
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