How the survey was done

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The poll used descriptive and quantitative research of young children and adolescents in Latin America and the Caribbean. Data was collected from 11,852 respondents of both sexes between the ages of 9 and 18, during October and November of 1999, using the same methodology and questionnaire in all 20 countries surveyed. The estimated margin of error was +/-1.2% relative to the population with a statistical reliability of 95%.

The opinion survey was comprised of a semi-structured questionnaire, with both closed questions, where the respondent selects from several possible answers, that where best corresponds to what he or she thinks, and open-ended questions, where the respondent gives spontaneous responses, without orientation or prompting of any kind.

The questionnaire was administered in the child respondents' homes, without the presence of parents or third parties in order to encourage the child to answer all the questions freely and candidly.

The sample was non-proportional, stratified by weighting the defined socio-demographics. The results of the study were weighted according to the real population and adjusted for each of the demographic segments considered in the sample.

These demographic parameters included age, gender, urban and rural residency, as well as the socio-economic status of the household (high, medium and low socio-economic levels). These measures ensured an accurate and representative sample.

The poll was conducted by Time Research Chile, which coordinated the regional institutes involved, namely Marketing Group, Borge & Associates, Research & Research, Invamer, M.H. & Associates, Time Research Peru, Ibope Time, MKT, Time Research Brazil, Marketing Investa and Time Research Argentina.

This information is provided as a contribution to discussion on important issues affecting children. UNICEF Regional offices conducted the polls, analysis and interpretations of the findings. For more information, please contact the regional poll contact person directly.