Obtaining Answers to Sensitive Survey Questions Using Venn Diagrams

Summary

We discuss the application of techniques used to solve Venn diagram survey problems to the problem of collecting truthful responses to sensitive questions. We also develop a method for collecting data for a sensitive question that protects the confidentiality of the respondent’s answer. The method uses techniques that students are taught to solve Venn diagram survey problems, and we discuss a classroom exercise based on the solution.

MSC:

• Primary 03E75
• Secondary 97U60

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Clifford Johnston

CLIFFORD JOHNSTON (MR Author ID: 351997) is an associate professor of mathematics at West Chester University of Pennsylvania. His professional research interests include PDEs, stochastic processes, mathematical foundations, and math on the web.