This page answers frequently asked questions about CoCHY’s teen survey.  For more information, contact the project office.

Why are we doing a survey?

To understand how religious activity protects teenagers from risky behaviors, like drug use and sexual behavior.  Also, to help parents and religious leaders use this information to protect youth.

Who are the participants?

Young people in 20 Columbus-area congregations, aged 13-19, who are involved with their congregation in some way.  Youths whose families are involved but themselves are not involved can also participate.  Teenagers under 18 must get have a parent or guardian sign a consent form.

What will they do?

Each youth will be asked to complete a confidential survey.  The survey takes about 30-60 minutes to complete.  The survey will be given three times— in Summer 2005, Winter 2006 and Fall 2006.

This survey will be administered using personal desk assistants (PDAs) in a private room at each congregation.  Sometimes, we may also give the survey in the youths’ homes.  In such a case, the family will be asked to provide a private room with a closed door where the participating youth and the OSU survey team member can complete the survey in privacy. 

The survey items address several topics, including family and friends, religious activity, beliefs and spirituality as well as attitudes and behavior relating to sexuality.  In addition, the there are items on other adolescent health topics and school.

I’m a parent.  Can I see a copy of the survey?

Yes.  Dozens of parents and pastors have already looked through the survey.  Any parent or pastor is welcome to come to the project office and look through the entire survey.  However, we cannot send you a copy of the survey.

Who will see the survey answers?

Each youth’s answers will be kept strictly confidential and will not be shared with anyone, including pastors, teachers, police, or parents.  Even the researchers will not know an individual’s answers.  After everyone’s answers are collected, we will group them together to study the results.

What will teens get for taking the survey?

Each teen will receive $20 cash every time they complete a survey.  Also they will receive a resource list of agencies they can call with questions about teen health issues.

Are there any risks to taking the survey?

It is very unlikely, but possible that taking the survey could upset a teenager.  So far, over 600 teens have taken the survey and no one has become visibly upset.  Any teen who becomes visibly upset will be asked to stop immediately and speak with a congregation leader or call a teen hotline.

What happens if I do not want to participate?

We hope that all teenagers and their families will want to join the study.  However, any youth or parent can decline without penalty.  Even after the study has started, youths or their parents can decide to stop participating and there will be no penalty.

Participating Congregations and their Local Leaders