More on Self-Perception Theory's Foot Technique in the Pre-Call/Mail Survey Setting

A field experiment conducted in Sweden compared the effectiveness of two types of telephone pre-calls in influencing response rates in a mail survey. Response rates for a questioning foot-in-the-door manipulation were evaluated against responses produced by a simple solicitation call and a blind mailing control. The results demonstrate that pre-calling in general enhances response rate. However, the results furnish, at best, qualified support for a self-perception theory prediction. Alternative explanations for the lack of the self-perception foot effect are offered. Conclusions are drawn for the practitioner and academic researcher.