This research was conducted during the period (September 2001-September 2003) in six governorates (Sana'a, Hajah, Dhamar, Albaidha, Ibb and Taiz). The study of sensitive topics such as the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers in Qat growing, faces many difficulties such as: information delusion leading to unrealistic results when relying only on quantitative research methods (questionnaires). So, this research used both qualitative and quantitative research methods to obtain more realistic findings and to identify delusive information. Data collection tools include a questionnaire (total of 500 forms: 360 Qat growers and 140 pesticides sellers), in addition to personal interviews and group meetings (60 group meetings). Results indicated that there exists no Qat without pesticide. There is a high experimentation management, farming practices application, and use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers in Qat growing especially in Dhamar, Albaidha (Rada'a), and Taiz. Farmers intentionally use high pesticides doses, and more number of pesticides in a single spray. They pick Qat within 2-4 days after last pesticides spray to realize objectives other than those for which pesticides were originally manufactured such as: 1) securing some marketing attributes that match the interests of Qat consumers (chewers) and 2) meeting the daily increase of Qat demand in the market.

Key Words :Group Discussion, Pesticides, Qat, Sensitive topics, Surve