peer review

Question 1

peer review

Answer 1

the assessment of scientific work by others who are specialists in the same field, to ensure that any research intended for publication is of high quality. All aspects of investigation are scrutinised by a small group of experts. this should be objective ad the experts should be unknown to the researcher

Question 2

aims of peer review

Answer 2

1. to allocate research funding- decide if research should get funding by government of charities etc
2. to validate the quality and relevance- assessed for quality and accuracy eg the formulation. of hypotheses, methodology chosen, stats tests and conclusions
3. to suggest improvements or amendments- help to improve the report or many even conclude research is inappropriate so should be withdrawn

Question 3

criticisms of peer review

Answer 3

some reviewers may use their anonymity to their advantage- they can criticise rival researchers without them knowing.
research that doesn’t appear positive or significant may not be published as it isn’t headline worthy and won’t attract others.
reviewers may surprise research that opposes mainstream theories in order to maintain status quo.

Question 4

implications of research for the economy in attachment

Answer 4

recent attachment research reveals the father fulfils a different role from the mother which is no less valuable than that of the mothers role. Parents are equally capable of providing emotional support. this may promote more flexible working arrangements, eg the mother works longer hours and earns more money and many parents use childcare. this means modern parents are better equipped to maximise income and contribute to economy

Question 5

implications of research for the economy for mental disorders

Answer 5

absence from work costs the economy £15 billion a year. recent reports reveal 1/3 of absences are due to mental health disorders. research into mental disorders therefore has an important role to play in supporting a healthy workforce. Conditions can be managed using antidepressants and SSRI’s and GPs can refer patients for psychotherapies eg systematic desensitisation. This means people can manage their condition effectively and return to work, helping the economy