Peer review and psychological research and the economy

Question 1

what is peer review

Answer 1

all aspects of the written investigation being scrutinized by a small group of experts in that field

Question 2

what is the main aim of peer review

Answer 2

1. to allocate research funding
2. to validate the quality and relevance of research
3. to suggest amendments or improvements

Question 3

evaluation if peer review

Answer 3

1. anonymity
   - more likely to produce a more honest appraisal
   - but may use anonymity as a way to criticise rival researchers who have previously crossed them
2. publication bias
   - tendency for editors of journals to want to publish significant findings to increase the credibility of their publication
3. burying ground breaking research
   - suppress opposition to mainstream theories wishing to maintain the status quo
   - reviewers tend to be critical of research that contradicts their own view

Question 4

what are the implications of psychological reseach for the economy

Answer 4

1. attachment research into the role of fathers
   - equal role of father in child’s attachment mans more flexible arrangements can be made
   - so maximum income and contribute more effectively to the economy
   3 development of treatment for mental disorder
   - absence from work cost the economy £15 billion a year
   1/3 of absences are due to mental health disorder
   - effective treatment for mental health means less absences from work so less money lost