Observer bias
Observer Bias
Observer bias (pronunciation: /əbˈzərvər bīəs/), also known as detection bias, is a type of cognitive bias that can affect the results of a research study or experiment. It occurs when the researcher's expectations or beliefs influence their perception or interpretation of the data, leading to inaccurate or skewed results.
Etymology
The term "observer bias" is derived from the English words "observer", meaning someone who watches or notices something, and "bias", which refers to a prejudice in favor of or against one thing, person, or group compared to another. The concept has been recognized in scientific research since the early 20th century.
Definition
Observer bias is a form of systematic error that can occur in research studies or experiments when the researcher's expectations, beliefs, or previous knowledge influence their perception or interpretation of the data. This can lead to inaccurate or skewed results, as the researcher may unconsciously favor data that supports their hypothesis or overlook data that contradicts it.
Related Terms
- Confirmation bias: This is a type of cognitive bias where people tend to seek out, interpret, and remember information in a way that confirms their preexisting beliefs or hypotheses.
- Selection bias: This occurs when the participants or data selected for a study are not representative of the population they are supposed to represent, leading to skewed results.
- Reporting bias: This is a type of bias that occurs when the frequency or manner in which data is reported, affects the interpretation of the results.
See Also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Observer bias
- Wikipedia's article - Observer bias
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