Public Opinion and Social Behavior Research Institute

About

The Public Opinion and Social Behavior Research Institute (POSBRI) at Claflin University is a premier research center dedicated to understanding the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that shape public opinion and influence societal trends. POSBRI is the Department of Social Sciences research arm at Claflin University. Our mission is to provide data-driven insights that inform public policy, political strategies, and social change, with a special focus on issues that impact communities in South Carolina, the Southeastern United States, and beyond.

Our Mission

At POSBRI, our mission is to advance the study of public opinion and social behavior by conducting rigorous research that reflects the diverse perspectives of the populations we serve. Through innovative methodologies, we aim to offer valuable insights into how individuals think, vote, and engage with society, particularly in the context of pressing political and social issues.

RESEARCH AREAS

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POSBRI specializes in several key areas of research, including:
- Political Behavior: Analyzing voter preferences, electoral outcomes, and political participation at the local, state, and national levels.
- Social Attitudes: Studying public opinion on key social issues such as race, education, healthcare, climate change, and economic inequality.
- Civic Engagement: Exploring patterns of community involvement, activism, and social movements to better understand the factors that motivate civic participation.
- Media and Public Discourse: Investigating the role of media and communication in shaping public opinion and social norms.
WHAT WE DO

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POSBRI conducts surveys, focus groups, and in-depth qualitative research to generate timely and relevant data for policymakers, political campaigns, and scholars. Our research reports, polling data, and analyses offer a clear picture of the public’s stance on critical issues, enabling leaders and organizations to make informed decisions based on empirical evidence.

Our flagship projects include:
- Election Surveys: Comprehensive statewide surveys that forecast voter behavior and examine key factors influencing electoral outcomes.
  - The 2024 South Carolina National Election Poll.
OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY AND REPRESENTATION

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At POSBRI, we are committed to amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities in the South and across the United States. As a research institute housed at one of the nation's leading historically Black universities, we take pride in ensuring that our work reflects the diverse perspectives of our communities and contributes to broader conversations about equity, justice, and inclusion.
PARTNERSHIPS AND COLLABORATION

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POSBRI regularly partners with academic institutions, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector to carry out collaborative research projects. These partnerships enable us to extend our reach and impact, ensuring that our findings influence real-world outcomes in meaningful ways.
WHAT CAN POSBRI DO FOR YOU?

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At the Public Opinion and Social Behavior Research Institute (POSBRI), we specialize in data collection and research services tailored to meet the needs of projects of all sizes. Whether you're conducting a small-scale community study or a large-scale statewide survey, we provide expert support throughout the research process.

Our services include:
- Survey Design and Execution: We can create and administer surveys using various methods, including mail, web, face-to-face, and mixed-mode approaches.
- Survey Instrument Evaluation: We offer assessments of existing survey tools, ensuring they are effective and aligned with your research goals.
- Qualitative Research: Our expertise extends to qualitative techniques such as focus groups, cognitive interviews, and structured observations, providing deep insights into public opinion and social behavior.
POSBRI is committed to delivering high-quality, customized research solutions that drive informed decision-making. Let us help you achieve your research objectives.

For more information about POSBRI, our research, or potential collaborations, contact
Dr. Poku-Agyemang
kpokuagyemang@claflin.edu