FSU BEHAVIORAL CONSENT FORM
Collectivism, Conflict, and Communication: The Dialogical Acculturation of Christian Egyptians in Egypt and the U.S.
You are invited to participate in a research study of culture and communication in Christian Egyptians in Egypt and the U.S.
You were selected as a possible participant because you have at least one Egyptian parent and are a Christian 18 years of age or older.
We ask that you read this form and ask any questions you may have before agreeing to be in the study.
This study is being conducted by Sally Bishai, a graduate student in the School of Communication at Florida State University, as part of her doctoral dissertation; 30 individuals are expected to participate in the research.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The purpose of this study is to identify the:
1) current culture of Christian Egyptians and Egyptian-Americans (in terms of both "conflicts" as well as "hopes and dreams"),
2) acculturation strategies used by members of both demographics, and
3) most common forms and styles of communication.
PROCEDURES:
If you agree to be in this study, we would ask you to do the following:
1) Read and complete an online consent form.
2) Complete an anonymous online survey (10-15 minutes) about Egyptian culture, family responsibilities and expectations, communication, marriage ideals.
3) Complete an anonymous online interview (10-15 minutes) via Yahoo or MSN messenger. (If your screenname reveals your identity, alternate arrangements may be made for the interview, just let us know.)
NOTE: If you are willing to share for more than 15 minutes, we are happy to stay on as long as you'd like. Additionally, you may certainly schedule your interviews and surveys on DIFFERENT days, if this is better for you.
RISKS AND BENEFITS OF BEING IN THE STUDY:
The study has two main risks:
First, the use of a computer keyboard has been linked with such maladies as carpal tunnel syndrome, and while it is not highly likely that such a condition would suddenly arise in direct response to the completion of this survey, it is important to realize that the risk exists.
Second, some individuals become agitated or upset when discussing culture, conflicts, family issues, and the like; for example, a question such as "What is your relationship like with your parents?" may bring up memories of family quarrels during the teenage years. In such a case, please feel free to indicate that you don't wish to discuss the matter; and of course there is always the option of ending the interview if you wish.
There are no direct benefits to participation.
COMPENSATION:
You will not receive payment for your participation.
CONFIDENTIALITY:
First and foremost, it is vital that participants do not hint at their identity within the survey or interview; for example, if you are a good friend of the researcher, you should refrain from using the nickname that you usually call her by. This is because the integrity of the answers—and the entire study—rests upon the complete and total anonymity of the participant.
Nonetheless, the records of this study will be kept private and confidential to the extent permitted by law.
In any sort of report we might publish, we will not include any information that will make it possible to inadvertently identify a subject. Research records will be stored securely and only researchers will have access to the records.
VOLUNTARY NATURE OF THE STUDY:
Participation in this study is voluntary. Your decision whether or not to participate will not affect your current or future relations with the University or with Sally Bishai. If you decide to participate, you are free to not answer any question or withdraw at any time without affecting those relationships.