ABSTRACT
Two aspects of the surveys for this chapter are innovative, or at least unusual. First, the research design adopted a 'minimalist' approach. Second, the surveys were carried out by using a quality omnibus in each country. The module of seven questions was inserted in nationally representative surveys in Britain and Spain. A good omnibus uses random sampling, achieves high survey response rates and question response rates, offers a full account of the methodology and collects a substantial number of classificatory variables. The British survey was carried out by inserting seven strategic questions in the Office for National Statistics (ONS) omnibus survey in January and February 1999. A small methodological experiment was included in the Spanish survey. One of the research objectives was to develop a methodology for testing preference theory. Given that the theory is empirically based, resting on an extensive analysis of recent trends in women's lifestyle choices in modern societies, this should have been straightforward.
