Nonresponse in name generators across countries and survey modes.

Past research indicates interviewer effects lead to an underestimation of network size and higher nonresponse to the "important matters" name generator. Self-administered surveys offer a potential solution, but evidence is mixed and context-specific. We employ a logistic multilevel regression, estimated using a Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo approach, to analyze nonresponse to this name generator from 33 post-electoral surveys across 21 countries in the Comparative National Election Project. We find higher nonresponse in interviewer-administered surveys compared to self-administered surveys, particularly among specific demographic groups. Finally, we discuss the trade-offs in selecting survey modes for collecting ego-network data using this instrument. • Cross-country analysis of interview modes and nonresponse to the name generator. • Positive association between interviewer-administered surveys and nonresponse. • Consistency with prior studies on survey modes and nonresponse behavior. • Exploration of interplay between interviewer presence and respondent characteristics. • Caution advised in interpreting nonresponse as a sole indicator of social isolation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]