role of peer review in the scientific process

Question 1

What is peer review?

Answer 1

Peer review is the process by which psychological research is assessed by independent experts in the same field before it is published, to ensure quality, validity, and credibility.

Question 2

What are the 3 main aims of peer review?

Answer 2

1. To allocate research funding
   
   2. To validate the quality and relevance of research
   3. To suggest improvements or reject flawed work

Question 3

How does peer review ensure research is valid and credible?

Answer 3

Experts check for sound methodology, appropriate analysis, logical conclusions, and accurate interpretation of results. This prevents the spread of unreliable findings.

Question 4

What is anonymity in peer review and why is it important?

Answer 4

Reviewers usually remain anonymous to ensure honesty and avoid personal bias. However, anonymity can sometimes allow for unfair criticism if not managed well.

Question 5

How is peer review used to allocate research funding?

Answer 5

Funding bodies like the ESRC or MRC use peer review to decide which research proposals should be funded, based on originality, feasibility, and scientific value.

Question 6

What are the limitations of the peer review process?

Answer 6

Publication bias: Journals favour positive or novel results, underreporting negative findings.
• Bias: Reviewers may be biased against rival researchers or controversial topics.
• Slows innovation: Can delay publication and suppress new ideas.

Question 7

What is publication bias and why is it a problem?

Answer 7

Journals are more likely to publish studies with positive or significant results, which leads to distorted scientific understanding and replicability issues.

Question 8

How might peer review hinder scientific progress?

Answer 8

It may favour established theories, discourage unconventional approaches, and create gatekeeping that limits innovative or minority perspectives.

Question 9

What improvements have been suggested for the peer review system?

Answer 9

• Use of open peer review (identity transparency)
• More standardised review criteria
• Training for reviewers
• Encouraging publication of replication studies and null results

Question 10

How can peer review reduce fraud in psychological research?

Answer 10

By requiring transparency and checking for fabricated, plagiarised, or misinterpreted data, peer review acts as a quality control system before publication.

Question 11

How is peer review part of the scientific process?

Answer 11

Peer review occurs after data collection and analysis but before publication, ensuring the research meets scientific standards of rigour and objectivity.