Why should double-barreled questions be avoided in questionnaires?

Double-barreled questions should be avoided in questionnaires primarily because they can confuse respondents and lead to unclear answers. A double-barreled question is one that asks about two different issues within a single question, which forces respondents to consider two distinct topics simultaneously. This can result in ambiguity, as it may not be clear what part of the question the respondent is answering, making it difficult to interpret their responses accurately. For instance, if a question asks, "How satisfied are you with your job and salary?" the respondent might feel positively about one aspect but not the other, which complicates the data analysis.

Clear and focused questions are essential in survey research, as they enhance the reliability and validity of the responses gathered. When each question targets a singular concept, respondents can provide direct and intentional answers, leading to more valuable data that reflects their true opinions or experiences. Thus, avoiding double-barreled questions helps maintain clarity and precision in the data collection process.