Significance of Social Survey

SIGNIFICANCE OF SOCIAL SURVEY

As there are varieties of surveys and methods, the significance of social surveys cannot be determined in abstract terms. The different types of social surveys and various techniques employed in those surveys have their respective significance and value, although from the general viewpoint, it can be well maintained that social surveys focus on the different dimensions of the social problems and enable us to cognise the aetiology of the problems and the interrelation of the causative factors. However, under the given circumstances and in relation to the nature of the problem, provision of finance, manpower, time and other facilities, the utility of a particular type of survey is judged and accordingly chosen, as each type of social survey has its own pros and cons and the weighing of those is central to the realisation of benefit out of it.

Notwithstanding the typology of surveys, in general terms, it may be ascertained that, on the basis of a social survey, practical steps may be taken to mitigate or bring an end to problems confronting a society or community. Moreover, the remedies suggested on the strength of a survey are considered effective because they are the results of scientific study and analysis of social phenomena.

Each type of social survey has its own value and requirements depending on the scope and nature of the social problem. When an overall idea of the multiple aspects of a social problem covering a broader area is required, a general or widespread survey appears to be of immense help. On the contrary, a specialised or in-depth survey with a limited range provides findings that are much more reliable and scientific than the conclusions of a general survey.

In the same way, the census survey, despite requiring substantial time, money, and manpower, produces more precise and reliable findings, whereas sample surveys are also more popular in the social sciences because they require less manpower, time, and money. If the universe is homogeneous, reliability and precision can also be achieved in sample surveys.

Primary surveys are highly important because they gather first-hand data in a well-organised manner on a particular subject. If proper techniques are used and comparative materials are available, the findings of such surveys serve as stepping stones for subsequent surveys, such as censuses and income data.

Personal surveys are desirable for their reliability and ability to dispel respondents' doubts. But if the respondents are literate, postal surveys are more suitable because they are less expensive than the personal survey.

Official surveys are always quite reliable and accurate. But such surveys require a large amount of funding and sufficient manpower, which can only be provided by governmental organisations. At the same time, private surveys are also useful. Their usefulness lay in the fact that at times the government may try to suppress such information derogatory to it and which is likely to arouse people’s opinion against it.

Direct surveys are preferred to Indirect Surveys because they are more amenable to quantification and more reliable. But, because the social data are qualitative, the indirect survey also has its own importance.

Public surveys are very useful for providing general information. Simultaneously, confidential surveys are also very useful in understanding the social problems like crime, marital conflict, homosexuality, lesbianism, etc.

Regular surveys demonstrate their usefulness in providing more reliable conclusions. Alongside, ad hoc surveys are useful for pursuing a specific purpose.