Research Methods (Peer Review + Economy)

Question 1

What is peer review?

Answer 1

The assessment of scientific work by other specialists in the same field, to ensure research intended for publication is high quality

Question 2

What are the 3 main aims of peer review?

Answer 2

1. To allocate research funding
2. To validate the quality/relevance of research (hypothesis, methodology, testing)
3. To suggest amendments/improvements

Question 3

3 AO3 points for peer review

Answer 3

- Anonymity (produces more honest appraisal, HOWEVER: researchers may criticize rivals who are competing for limited research funding)

- Publication bias (research that does meet certain criteria ignored/disregarded)

- Burying groundbreaking research (findings that align with current opinions more likely to be passed, than those that are contradictory/new)

Question 4

Describe the impact of attachment research into the role of the father on the economy

Answer 4

• Suggests fathers role no less valuable in child’s upbringing
• Suggests both parents equally capable of providing emotional support necessary for development
• Mothers now tend to be higher earners/co-parents, so able to maximise income and contribute to the economy

Question 5

Describe the impact of the development of treatments for mental disorders on the economy

Answer 5

• Absence from work costs the economy £15 billion a year
• Research into causes and treatments of disorders supports healthy workforce
• Use of psychotherapeutic drugs allows people to effectively manage conditions and return to work
• Administering drugs e.g SSRI’s + CBT are expensive so difficult for NHS to provide
• Treatment may be over/underprescription