What does the term bias refer to in the context of research?

In the context of research, the term bias specifically refers to systematic errors that impact the validity and reliability of results. Bias can distort findings, leading to inaccurate conclusions that do not reflect the true state of affairs.

When bias occurs, it can result from various factors, such as the way data is collected, the selection of participants, or how questions are framed in surveys. This systematic nature means that the errors introduced are not random; instead, they consistently skew results in a particular direction, making it difficult to gauge the actual effects or relationships within the data accurately.

Understanding bias is crucial in research because it can undermine the integrity of the study, rendering findings questionable or untrustworthy. Researchers strive to minimize bias through careful study design, appropriate sampling methods, and thorough data analysis techniques, ensuring the outcomes reflect true associations rather than distortions introduced during the research process.