Bias refers to a systematic error or deviation from the truth that can occur during the design, conduct, analysis, or interpretation of a study. Unlike random errors, which occur by chance, bias consistently influences results in a particular direction and can lead to inaccurate or misleading conclusions.
There are many different types of bias that researchers must consider. For example, selection bias occurs when participants are chosen in a way that makes them unrepresentative of the wider population, while observer bias can occur when a researcher's expectations influence how they collect or interpret data. Recall bias may arise when participants are asked to remember past events and their memories are inaccurate, and publication bias occurs when studies with positive or statistically significant results are more likely to be published than those with negative or inconclusive findings.
Recognising and minimising bias is a key part of conducting high-quality research, as it helps ensure that scientific findings are reliable, objective, and accurately reflect reality.
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