Revisiting the continuum of resistance model in the digital age: a comparison of early and delayed respondents to the Norwegian counties public health survey

Abstract Background The continuum of resistance model’s premise is that delayed respondents to a survey are more similar non-respondents than early are. For decades, researchers have applied this model in attempts evaluate and adjust for non-response bias. Despite recent resurgence the popularity, its value has only been assessed one large online population health survey. Methods Respondents Norwegian Counties Public Health Survey Hordaland, Norway, were divided into three groups: those who responded within 7 days initial email/SMS invitation (wave 1, n = 6950); after 8 14 1 reminder 2, 4950); 15 or 2 reminders 3, 4045). Logistic regression analyses used compare respondents’ age, sex educational level between waves, as well prevalence poor general health, life dissatisfaction, mental distress, chronic problems, weekly alcohol consumption, monthly binge drinking, daily smoking, physical activity, low social support receipt disability pension. Results overall response was 41.5%. wave likely be older, female highly educated waves 3. However, there no substantial differences any outcomes, with maximal difference 2.6% consumption 1: 21.3%, 3: 18.7%). Conclusions There appeared mild demographic variables. not reflected related which uniformly across waves. unlikely useful nonresponse bias surveys health.