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Dimensions of social exclusion

Original title: Dimensies van sociale uitsluiting

SCP has carried out research since 2004 on the occurrence and causes of social exclusion, both among the Dutch population as a whole and within certain groups (the elderly, children). The questionnaire used for this has been regularly updated on the basis of experience and new insights. However, the questionnaire still contained a large number of questions and also suffered from a number of technical limitations. Was it not possible to develop an improved and more concise version of the questionnaire?

Using focus groups and cognitive tests, this study first examined whether the measurement instrument adequately covers the different aspects of social exclusion. Based on the results, existing questions were reformulated and/or supplemented. The renewed questionnaire was then submitted to a sample of just under 650 respondents. Analysis of the results led to a useful and valid measurement instrument comprising 15 questions, which SCP will use in the future for periodic measurements of social exclusion among the adult Dutch population.

Stella Hoff is a researcher in the Labour, Income and Social Security research group at SCP. Her interests include poverty, non-use of income provisions and the life situation of benefit claimants.

Cok Vrooman is head of the Labour, Income and Social Security research group. His primary interest is in the empirical study of poverty and the social impact of social security institutions in different countries.