Definition Acquiescence bias

Acquiescence describes the tendency to accept default theories in surveys regardless of their content. Put simply: Respondents have a tendency to answer "yes" rather than "no" on average. Therefore, the question: "Should there be an increase in support for the unemployed?" will be affirmed by a majority. It is the same with the opposite question: "Should we dispense with higher unemployment benefits in order to reduce tax burdens on the workforce?" In surveys, therefore, an open question format such as "What can the government do to address current social issues?" is preferable.

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