A Comparison of Two Methods for Examining Inmates’ Self-Reported Drug Use

Abstract

This article examines the reliability of prison inmates’ self-reported drug use. Data were collected from face-to-face interviews and self-administered questionnaires. A number of steps were taken to increase the validity of self-reports. Results indicate that self-reported drug use is reliable although inmates were slightly more likely to admit to using drugs on a self-administered questionnaire than during face-to-face interviews. The study's limitations and implications are discussed.

Key Words:

• Self-reports
• Reliability
• Validity
• Drug use
• Inmates