About

Ask Three Questions is a new approach to identifying coercion and control within a relationship.

Participant Information

We would like to invite you to participate in our research study Ask Three Questions. Participation is voluntary and you will not be able to be identified if you participate. If you agree to participate, there are 12 questions to answer.

About the study

This study is concerned with non-physical early relationship coercion and control which is important because it often leads to physical abuse. We are seeking participants aged 18 or over who are currently in relationships. Participation in the research will take approximately 5 minutes of your time.

Purpose of the research

The purpose of the research is to validate the Ask Three Questions tool. 

Why have I been invited?​

The aim is to recruit participants who are in relationships. 

Do I have to take part?

Participation is entirely voluntary. It is up to you to decide whether or not to take part.  If you agree to take part, you will be asked to consent digitally. You may withdraw without giving a reason before your data is submitted by closing your browser tab.

What will happen to me if I take part?

If you agree to participate, there are 12 questions to answer.

Expenses and payments

There is no reimbursement for your time.

What data will be collected? ​

We will collect anonymous closed question answers about your relationship. 

What are the possible disadvantages of taking part?​

You may find some of the questions of a sensitive nature.  However, you have the option ‘prefer not to say’ if you do not wish to answer. 

What are the possible benefits of taking part? ​

You may not receive any direct personal benefits from participating, but those experiencing coercion and control in a relationship may benefit from the results of this work. 

Will my data be kept confidential? ​

No personal data will be collected. Data will be stored securely in line with Keele University Open Data Retention Policy. Anonymous data, which does not identify you, will be publicly shared at the end of the project and made open access.   

What will happen if I don’t want to carry on with the study? ​

You can stop participation by closing your browser tab. Please note that it will not be possible to withdraw your data after submission as data is submitted anonymously. 

What if there is a problem? ​

If you have a query, concern or complaint about this study, you should contact the researchers confidentially via: AskThreeQ@gmail.com leaving the subject line blank. Disclosures via email will be handled sensitively.

If your concern or complaint is not resolved by the research team, you should contact the FMHS Research Ethics Committee via health.ethics@keele.ac.uk

Who is funding the research? ​

This research is being funded by Keele University Institute for Global Health and Wellbeing.  

Who has reviewed the study? ​

Research involving human participants is reviewed by an ethics committee to ensure that the dignity and well-being of participants is respected. This study has been given favourable ethical opinion by Keele University FMHS Faculty Research Ethics Committee.