I would just like to address everyone who has provided input on this topic, and the way in which I went about posting. Thank you for bringing these concerns to light.
I did ask permission, and I am sorry I didn't wait to hear back from the admin. I was not trying to be unethical; I was just ignorant to the practices on this forum and knew my intentions were not to be exploitive or disrespectful. I was excited to get started. Again, MANY apologies.
Honestly, Toughy, I just didn't see your initial post, when I went through and answered the newest ones. And, when I came back to check in, there was the long post you had written. So, I wasn't trying to ignore your question. In fact, I want to thank you for what you said. I appreciate your perspective and your in-depth knowledge of research, the process, and the protection of respondents/human subjects. You have brought to light the intricacies of surveying (and you're right, this is a survey). When using the terms "lesbian" and "bisexual" I was thinking women who self-identified that way, and although I have written this up in my paper, you are correct, I should have included it in my consent.
And, again, you're correct, 250 respondents, obviously, will not provide the needed information to change healthcare for lesbians. It is a dissertation project, from which I am hoping to learn and grow and think about many of the things you have pointed out here. It is an exercise to improve my skills and become a better researcher in the future. I am a student, and I am learning. And, the responses gleaned from this survey are being used as a starting point in trying to better understand the areas that need further investigation.
My sincere interest is trying to collect a small set of data to better educate me in this area and to learn how to improve research in this area. The admin is correct, this forum is an intelligent group. I very much appreciate the feedback I've received. I will discuss these issues with my committee and during my defense, so I thank you. As well, I whole-heartedly apologize for the heated debate I sparked by inadequately answering (or not answering) posts. Truthfully, there was no lack of honesty or deception being employed on my end. I will work to improve measures and wording of questions, etc. for future work. This project has been a great exercise to offer insight into how to improve such things, and I sincerely appreciate your input.
So, again, I want to thank you. I'm grateful for your honesty and knowledge. I humbly request your forgiveness. You have provided me with much to consider.
Best,
HG
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