Use of recall data in survey research on human sexual behavior

Abstract

A critical, but often neglected, concern in survey research is the use of recall data. This article identifies two sources of possible error in restrospective accounts, particularly of human sexual behavior. “Faulty recall” is unintentional false reporting due to poor memory or changing perception of past reality. “Falsified accounts” involve intentional false reporting due to a fear of being honest with the interviewer or a desire to present a false image for ego enhancement. Previous warnings about the use of recall data are reviewed. The variety of ways and the circumstances under which faulty recall and falsified accounts can influence research findings are elaborated. However, with care in data collection and analysis, these problems need not preclude the use of recall data in survey research.