As state and local agencies modernize their data collection methods, Qualtrics has emerged as a powerful platform for conducting the CDC's Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS). The shift toward electronic administration has been significant, with numerous agencies successfully implementing digital surveys in 2023. In fact, 21 states, the District of Columbia, and 10 local education agencies conducted their high school YRBS electronically, while 10 states, DC, and four local agencies did the same for middle school surveys.
Why Qualtrics for YRBS?
- Secure data collection and storage
- Enhanced accessibility for students
- Real-time response monitoring
- Streamlined data analysis capabilities
- Reduced administrative burden
- Environmental sustainability (paperless)
Important Note for Implementation: While Qualtrics provides an excellent platform for YRBS administration, agencies should be aware that the CDC does not provide pre-configured electronic questionnaires. Your team will need to configure the standardized YRBS questions within Qualtrics, allowing for customization while maintaining compliance with CDC requirements.
Getting Started:
- Download the "Guide to Conducting Your Own YRBS" from the CDC website
- Review the standard questionnaires available at www.cdc.gov/yrbs/questionnaires/index.html
- Download our ready-to-use Qualtrics Survey File (.qsf), which is an exact replication of the Standard High School 2025 questionnaire. This file allows you to:
- Import the survey directly into your Qualtrics instance
- Save hours of programming time
- Ensure accurate question formatting and logic
- Maintain consistency with CDC standards
- Test your electronic survey thoroughly before deployment
- Ensure your implementation meets both CDC standards and local requirements
By leveraging Qualtrics for YRBS administration, your agency can collect vital youth health behavior data more efficiently while maintaining data integrity and security. This modern approach not only simplifies the process for administrators but also provides a more engaging experience for student participants.
Ready to modernize your YRBS implementation? Contact your Qualtrics representative to learn more about setting up your survey platform for YRBS administration!
