Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Biases are systematic errors or prejudices that affect the accuracy and reliability of data. They can occur at any stage of data collection, analysis, or interpretation.
Related terms
Sampling Bias: Sampling bias occurs when the method used to select participants for a study is flawed, resulting in an unrepresentative sample.
Confirmation Bias: Confirmation bias refers to our tendency to search for, interpret, and remember information in a way that confirms our preexisting beliefs or hypotheses.
Reporting Bias: Reporting bias happens when researchers selectively report certain results while omitting others based on their significance or alignment with desired outcomes.