Snowball sampling: a cautionary tale involving a study of older drug users

WATERS, Jaime (2015). Snowball sampling: a cautionary tale involving a study of older drug users. International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 18 (4), 367-380.

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Abstract

Snowball sampling is generally seen as a highly effective sampling technique that allows for the study of difficult to reach or ‘hidden’ populations. It is also seen as a valuable tool for the study of particularly sensitive or private matters. As a result, it was chosen as the sampling method for a research study into illegal drug users over the age of 40 who are not in contact with the criminal justice authorities or treatment agencies regarding their use. However, there proved to be great difficulty in locating and interviewing potential participants using snowball sampling. Four reasons for this are proposed, and it is suggested that snowball sampling is prone to failure in particular circumstances. Thus, caution should be exercised when considering its adoption as a sample-building technique.

Item Type:	Article
Research Institute, Centre or Group - Does NOT include content added after October 2018:	Hallam Centre for Community Justice
Identification Number:	https://doi.org/10.1080/13645579.2014.953316
Page Range:	367-380
Depositing User:	Hilary Ridgway
Date Deposited:	21 Nov 2014 10:39
Last Modified:	18 Mar 2021 19:00
URI:	https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/8848

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