What is publication bias?

What is publication bias?

Publication bias refers to the tendency of researchers, journals, and publishers to favor the publication of positive or significant results over negative or inconclusive ones.

Why is publication bias a problem?

It skews the scientific literature, leading to an overestimation of the effectiveness of interventions and can mislead future research and policy decisions.

How can we reduce publication bias?

We can reduce publication bias by promoting the publication of all results, including negative findings, and encouraging pre-registration of studies.

Are there any examples of publication bias in research?

Yes, a well-known example is in clinical trials where positive results are more likely to be published, while negative results often remain unpublished.