Marketing Research and Insight Glossary

Definitions, common uses and explanations of 1,500+ key market research terms and phrases.

What is Quixotic reliability?

Content Type:
Glossary
Share Print

Quixotic reliability Definition

An error in which a single method of observation or study yields unvarying but inaccurate measurement. This may be due to the fact that the response is rehearsed.

Quixotic reliability in marketing research refers to a scenario where survey respondents consistently provide similar but unrealistic or idealized responses which do not reflect their true behaviors, attitudes or intentions.

What are the key characteristics of quixotic reliability in marketing research?

  • Consistent yet unrealistic responses.
  • Respondent’s project idealized self-images.
  • Low external validity of collected data.
  • Difficulties in detecting without deeper analysis.
  • Often arises from social desirability bias.

Why is quixotic reliability important in market research?

Quixotic reliability is important because it signals potential inaccuracies in data collection, potentially leading marketers to incorrect conclusions or misguided strategies. Awareness of this issue helps researchers improve survey design and interpretation accuracy.

Who relies on quixotic reliability in marketing research?

Market research professionals, survey analysts, consumer psychologists, product developers, brand managers and anyone involved in interpreting consumer attitudes and behaviors rely on understanding and addressing quixotic reliability.

How do market researchers use quixotic reliability?

Market researchers identify quixotic reliability to detect biases or inaccuracies in surveys, refine questionnaire designs, implement validation checks, conduct follow-up qualitative research and enhance overall data quality to better reflect authentic consumer insights.