Family Talk Q&A

Who participates in the visit? Do both parents have to participate?

Research staff, parent(s), and the student. If possible, we'd like to have all parents who live in the teen's home participate in the visit, but we do not require both parents to participate. If all the teen's parents who live in the home participate, the teen and each parent(s) will be paid an extra $20.

Where will this visit take place?

Parents can choose where the meeting is held: At the family’s home or at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Why do you want to come to my home?

We realize that families have very busy schedules, and we appreciate your participation in this study. For this reason, we want to make the process as convenient for you as we possibly can. Having project staff visit your home can save you time and hassle. Also, some families feel more natural and comfortable having the family discussions in their own homes.

What will we talk about during the visit?

We will ask families to have several discussions during the visit. Some will help you "warm-up" and get comfortable with the procedures. For example, you may be asked to plan a family outing. We will also ask you to discuss thoughts and feelings about smoking and everyday family life.

How much time will this project require? When will the visit be scheduled?

The visit will take 1-1/2 hours and will be scheduled at a time convenient for the members of your family. We have available time on weekday evenings and on weekends.

If participants do smoke, will they have to tell their parents that they smoke in order to take part in the project?

ABSOLUTELY NOT. We will never ask participants to reveal their personal smoking habits in the family talks. We will only ask about opinions regarding teen smoking in general.

Are participants paid for their participation?

Each involved parent will be paid $30. Teens will be paid $30. If all of the teen's parents who live in the home participate, each participating teen and parent(s) will receive an extra $20.

What happens to the videotapes and files?

The tapes are brought back to the lab at the University of Chicago and are stored in a locked cabinet. Videos will be viewed only by staff and researchers involved in the study for the purpose of coding. Study data are accessible only by study personnel. The files and DVDs will be labeled only with the students’ ID numbers – no names are used.

Will teachers or classmates know whether we participated in this study?

No. Only the research staff will know if you participated or if you decline to participate.

Can I find out the results of the study?

If you want to know about the results of this study, you may contact Dr. Laurie Wakschlag for information.

Who is leading this project?

Dr. Laurie Wakschlag is the Primary Investigator and Dr. Joyce Ho is the Project Director for the Family Talk project which is one piece of the Health Connections study.