Research Methods -> Peer Review

Question 1

Peer review

Answer 1

Peer review is the process by which psychological research papers, before publication, are subjected to independent scrutiny by other psychologists working in a similar field who consider the research in terms of its validity, significance and originality.

Question 2

Peer reviews allow:

Answer 2

Allocation of research funding
Publication of research in scientific journals and books
Assessing the research rating of university departments
To validate the quality and relevance of research
To suggest amendments or improvements

Question 3

Weaknesses of peer review

Answer 3

Unachievable ideal – it isn’t always possible to find an appropriate expert to review a research project or proposal
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Anonymity – using the single blind technique is usually practised so that reviewers may be honest and objective. However, if the reviewers are doing it for revenge then this creates more problems. Also as research is conducted in the social world where people compete for grants, inevitably they will make friends and enemies. Hence this may interfere with objectivity
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Publication bias – peer review tends to favour the publication of positive results, possibly because editors want research that has important implications in order to increase the standing of their journal