I'm wondering if some feel threatened by research - given that as another said here, many researchers come and go in these forums . . .
Nope, I highly doubt anyone here feels "threatened by research." It's an optional activity in which to partake, after all.
Yes, researchers come and go here - from scientists at research organizations, to students in graduate school, community collage, and even high school, and we've seen a wide range of types of surveys. Some have been very well-thought out and some quite poorly designed -- and our members will speak up and give their opinions of the surveys. Do a search for the word "survey" and you will likely find a few of them.
As a Moderator, usually my frustration stems from any lack of identifying themselves. I want to protect our community and make sure people are not visiting some weird site that isn't legit, to input their personal information. Same thing happens with television production companies and interview shows - a lot of them have these anonymous email addresses with free email providers, saying they are casting a show for a major network without identifying the name of their casting company or the production company. I simply think we should know who wants information from us. So, that is always what I am on the lookout for, and that is why I asked you to clarify who was who. I could access your member IDs, IP addresses, etc., behind the scenes, but asked for clarification in the thread because I just want the people who participate to be clear about what is going on here.
EDIT: I did not click on the research link at first because I practice solo poly and do not have a partner, so would not qualify to take the survey, but I just did click on it and am glad to see the transparency there. If anyone wanted to confirm that this survey is legit, then at least they can contact Indiana U. before taking it. But it does help to be transparent in the discussion thread, too.
Thanks!