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
When a psychologist fails to maintain objectivity during research, they allow personal biases or preconceived notions to influence their observations and interpretations of data. This can lead to skewed results and compromised scientific validity.
Related terms
Confirmation bias: The tendency to interpret information in a way that confirms one's preexisting beliefs.
Observer bias: When an experimenter's expectations or knowledge about the study participants influence their observations or interpretations.
Social desirability bias: A tendency for participants in a study to respond in ways that are socially acceptable rather than providing honest answers.