Researcher affect refers to the process whereby a researcher:
A) consciously manipulates the results of a study
B) consciously lies in order to "polish" his/her results
C) inadvertently searches for conclusions supporting the desired results
D) inadvertently searches for data in order to falsify the desired results

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Researcher affect occurs when a researcher unintentionally seeks out and emphasizes evidence that supports their desired outcome or hypothesis, while downplaying or ignoring evidence that contradicts it. It is not a conscious act of manipulation, but rather a natural tendency for researchers to seek confirmation of their beliefs. Option A and B involve intentional deception, while option D involves intentionally seeking out evidence that contradicts the desired results, which is not consistent with the definition of researcher affect.

Researcher Affect Refers to the Process Whereby a Researcher