Seaton, Kimberly L, Cornell, Jodi L, Wilhelmsen, Kirk C, Vieten, C. (2006) Effective Strategies for Recruiting Families Ascertained Through Alcoholic Probands. Alcoholism Clinical & Experimental Research, 28(1), 78-84.
Abstract
Background: Recruiting a large number of participants meeting strict inclusion criteria can be challenging, particularly when selecting for a condition associated with a social stigma such as alcoholism, when participation involves collection of medical specimens and sensitive information, and when the participation of family members or other collaterals is required. Developing and implementing a successful recruitment plan depends upon identifying the most effective recruitment strategies given the available resources.
Methods: Several strategies for recruiting subjects for a large family study on the genetics of alcoholism were evaluated over a two-year period with regard to participant yield, time and cost expenditure.
Results: Overall effectiveness of a recruitment strategy was determined based on a composite of yield, cost and time expenditure. The most effective recruitment strategies were direct mail, press release, the Internet and treatment center collaborations.
Conclusion: Results provide insight into successful strategies for recruiting large numbers of participants and their family members selected for a condition associated with a social stigma.
