peer review and psychological research and the economy

Question 1

the role of peer review

Answer 1

• aim of science is to produce body of knowledge based on results of research
• it is important how knowledge is communicated with the scientific community and public
• research findings are often published through journals
• research must be subject to peer review before it can be published
• involves all aspects of written investigation being scrutinised by a small group of 2-3 experts who conduct an objective review

Question 2

main aims of peer review

Answer 2

to allocate research findings - takes place to help decide whether to award funding for a research project, may be coordinated by government-run organisations

to validate the quality and relevance of research - all elements are assessed for quality and accuracy

to suggest amendments or improvements - may suggest minor revisions and therefore improve the report, in extreme circumstances may conclude that the work is inappropriate for publication and should be withdrawn

Question 3

evaluation of peer review - anonymity

Answer 3

• reviewer usually remains anonymous throughout process
• some reviewers may use their anonymity to criticise rival researchers, especially as many researchers are in competition for limited funding
• some journals favour a system of open reviewing whereby names of reviewers are made public

Question 4

evaluation of peer review - publication bias

Answer 4

• natural tendency for editors of journals to want to publish headline grabbing findings to increase credibility and circulation of publication
• also prefer to publish positive results
• could mean that research that does not meet the criteria is ignored or disregarded
• creates a false impression of current state of psychology

Question 5

evaluation of peer review - burying groundbreaking research

Answer 5

• process may suppress opposition to mainstream theories, wishing to maintain status quo within scientific fields
• reviewers tend to be critical of research that contradicts their own view and vice versa
• established scientists are more likely to be chosen as reviewers
• peer review may slow down the rate of change within a scientific discipline

Question 6

implications of psychological research for the economy - attachment research into the role of the father

Answer 6

• at the time Bowlby was writing, childcare was seen as mother’s responsibility whilst the father carried out the role of provider
• more recent research suggests that father fulfils a different role from mother, no less valuable in child’s upbringing
• research shows that both parents are equally as capable of providing necessary emotional support, this may promote more flexible working arrangements
• modern parents are better equipped to maximise income and contribute more effectively to economy

Question 7

implications of psychological research for the economy - development of treatments for mental disorders

Answer 7

• absence from work costs economy about 15billion a year, a third of absences are caused by mental health conditions such as depression
• research into causes and treatments has an important role to play in supporting a healthy workforce
• many conditions treated by drugs, therapy, etc.
• referrals can also be made for systematic desensitisation
• in many cases, people with mental health conditions can manage it effectively and return to work, therefore the economic benefit of research into treatments is considerable