How can a researcher's bias influence research outcomes?

When a researcher's bias influences research outcomes, it can skew data interpretation and findings because biases can lead researchers to favor certain outcomes or perspectives. Bias can arise from personal beliefs, expectations, or even the framing of the research question. This subjective lens can impact how data is collected, analyzed, and interpreted, sometimes leading to conclusions that reflect the researcher's viewpoint rather than the actual evidence.

For example, if a researcher has a strong belief in a particular theory, they may unintentionally focus on data that supports this theory while overlooking data that contradicts it. As a result, the findings may not provide an accurate representation of the reality being studied.

In contrast to this, objectivity in research is crucial for ensuring that results are credible and reproducible. A lack of bias is essential for presenting varied and comprehensive data that reflects a wide range of perspectives rather than a singular, skewed view.