An objective validation of factual interview data

Abstract

How valid is information obtained from interviews? 91 physically handicapped individuals were interviewed by 5 female interviewers, each having a 3-hour training period. The information for some was obtained by talking directly to the handicapped person; for others, it was obtained from an adult relative. These data were checked against agency records and employer questionnaires. "It is indefensible to assume the validity of purportedly factual data obtained by interview." (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)