Explain what confirmation bias is, why researchers need to be aware of it, and how its effects can be minimized

Confirmation bias alludes to the tendency of researchers to interpret or seek new
evidence that confirms beliefs that the researcher already had. A researcher with a
confirmation bias will gladly accept new information that aligns with beliefs that they already
hold. Information that supports one’s beliefs is thus preferred over information that does not
support the beliefs and views that one already has. Confirmation bias results in unwitting
selectivity in the acquisition and analysis of evidence. One may thus mold facts to suit a
belief that they already have (Nickerson, 1998). Instead of impartially evaluating evidence,
an author with a confirmation bias tends to ensure that evidence conforms to their line of
thinking and beliefs. Confirmation bias influences a researcher’s behavior and thoughts. One
formulates a hypothesis that is aligned to their beliefs and actively ensures that they seek
information that will confirm what they hold to be true (Nickerson, 1998). More weight may
also be given to information that confirms one’s beliefs, with less weight being given to
information that fails to confirm the beliefs that one already has.

Researchers need to be aware of confirmation bias because it can affect how they
interpret information. Confirmation bias can prevent a researcher from looking at information
impartially and objectively. Confirmation bias can often result in one failing to keep an open
mind when undertaking research (Nickerson, 1998). One’s judgment can also be adversely
affected by confirmation bias. When one fails to keep an open mind during research, they are
likely to make serious errors and erroneous conclusions. Being aware of confirmation bias
can thus help one to be careful, especially when dealing with materials that support their
views. Identify at least one bias you have that may affect your research question.
Explain specific steps you can take to minimize the effect of that bias.

My research question is “What are the benefits of physical activity in children aged 6 to 7
years?”. I have worked as a health assistant in the hospital setup. In my experience, obesity is
one of the main health issues that affect children. I may therefore tend to actively look for
information on how physical activity in children can help in reducing obesity. One step that I
can take to avoid confirmation bias is to challenge my beliefs. I need to ensure that I explore
a wide body of literature that will challenge the beliefs that I hold. In addition, I have to
acknowledge the confirmation bias that I hold. For one to solve any problem, they have to
begin by accepting that the problem exists. Acknowledging confirmation bias will help
ensure that I attain a degree of self-regulation when undertaking research. As a researcher, I
must seek to ensure that I remain objective in spite of my beliefs. This can only be achieved
if I am able to minimize confirmation bias.

Discuss how learning about confirmation bias has contributed to your growth as a
learner and researcher.

Learning about confirmation bias has opened my mind towards acknowledging that I
may be biased when undertaking research. I have acknowledged that there is a difference
between researching with an open mind to come up with an objective conclusion and building
a case to justify an existing conclusion. Going forward, I will ensure that I acknowledge any
bias that I may hold and ensure that I seek evidence from all sides with a view of coming up
with an objective conclusion. I will avoid selectively gathering evidence to confirm a
conclusion that I already have. I will also seek to ensure that I am committed to the unbiased
weighing of all evidence at hand. I will seek to explore the views of authors who do not hold
a similar position.

References

Nickerson, R. S.(1998). Confirmation Bias: A Ubiquitous Phenomenon in Many
Guises. Review of General Psychology.