Incentives to increase paticipation in an internet alcohol survey: a controlled expreiment

Aim: To examine the use of the Internet in a survey of drinking among students, and the effectiveness of incentives to encourage participation. Method: In a survey of drinking in university students, a random sample of 160 was randomly assigned to one of four token incentive conditions. All received posted invitations and e-mailed and telephone reminders. Results: Overall response was 85% and did not differ significantly by incentive condition. Conclusion: Internet surveys are effective in obtaining alcohol use information from students. Minimal incentives may suffice if coupled with intensive follow-up.