Comparative sociological research across national borders can highlight the differences amongst countries, which can be invaluable to identify characteristics of sociology and varying cultures (Jowell et al, 2007). Differing values are important in social research, as contending groups believe their beliefs are more significant than others (Davidov, Schmidt and Schwartz, 2008). The European Social Survey (ESS) is an academically driven survey that aims to chart social change with the perceptions of European citizens toward certain elements within their society. This is achieved by bi-annual research since 2001, with the use of quantitative research and statistical analysis based on a sample of the populations answers to the survey undertaken
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However, missing data can lead to error in measurement and weighing (West and Little, 2013). The ESS attempts to correct and minimise the effect that non responsive bias may have on reliability; this is achieved via adjusting for non response by using probability of response. This is acted on by analysing demographic information on non responders and those responded (European Social Survey, 2016). Although, response rates do not ensure quality and validity, it persists as a crucial component in cross national study (Fitzgerald and Jowell, 2011). The ESS highlights that any deviations and discrepancies to the standard testing are addressed and published in order to minimise errors and retain transparency (Jowell et al, 2007). In reply, Bethlehem et al (2008) suggests that the ESS should consider greater research into non response bias due to the falling number in response rates, and the estimating assumption of data can harm reliability and validity. The ESS has shown an attempt to retain reliability and validity in their research. As non response bias may affect results, the probability adjustments utilised are reasonable. However, further study into missing data analysis should be
However, missing data can lead to error in measurement and weighing (West and Little, 2013). The ESS attempts to correct and minimise the effect that non responsive bias may have on reliability; this is achieved via adjusting for non response by using probability of response. This is acted on by analysing demographic information on non responders and those responded (European Social Survey, 2016). Although, response rates do not ensure quality and validity, it persists as a crucial component in cross national study (Fitzgerald and Jowell, 2011). The ESS highlights that any deviations and discrepancies to the standard testing are addressed and published in order to minimise errors and retain transparency (Jowell et al, 2007). In reply, Bethlehem et al (2008) suggests that the ESS should consider greater research into non response bias due to the falling number in response rates, and the estimating assumption of data can harm reliability and validity. The ESS has shown an attempt to retain reliability and validity in their research. As non response bias may affect results, the probability adjustments utilised are reasonable. However, further study into missing data analysis should be