Handbook of Meta-Analysis

A meta-analysis is a statistical analysis that combines the results of multiple studies to provide a more accurate estimate of the effect size or effect frequency. It is widely used in the social sciences and other fields to answer questions about relationships and causes. This book provides a comprehensive overview of meta-analysis methods and applications, divided into four major sub-topics: univariate meta-analysis, multivariate meta-analysis, applications, and policy. It is designed to be suitable for graduate students and researchers new to the field, with lots of real examples and data and software code made available. The chapters are written by the leading researchers in the field.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 554 pages
Publication date: 27 March 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Here is the rephrased text:
Meta-analysis is a powerful statistical method that combines the results of multiple studies to provide a comprehensive overview of a particular topic. It has numerous applications in various fields, including psychology, medicine, and social sciences. In this book, we will provide a comprehensive overview of meta-analysis methods and applications.

Divided into four major sub-topics, covering univariate meta-analysis, multivariate meta-analysis, applications, and policy, this book is designed to be suitable for graduate students and researchers new to the field. Each chapter is written by a leading researcher in the field, ensuring that the content is up-to-date and relevant.

One of the key features of this book is its emphasis on real-world examples. We will use data from actual studies to illustrate the methods and applications of meta-analysis. Additionally, we will provide data and software code that readers can use to replicate the analyses discussed in the book.

Univariate meta-analysis is a method that combines the results of multiple studies that measure the same outcome variable. It is useful when there is a limited number of studies available, or when the studies are heterogeneous in terms of their design, sample size, and other characteristics. Multivariate meta-analysis is a method that combines the results of multiple studies that measure different outcome variables. It is useful when there is a need to account for the interrelationships between the variables and to obtain a more accurate estimate of the effect size.

Applications of meta-analysis include the evaluation of medical treatments, the analysis of social and behavioral interventions, and the study of policy effects. For example, meta-analysis can be used to determine the effectiveness of a new drug or treatment, to compare the effectiveness of different interventions for reducing crime, or to evaluate the impact of government policies on health outcomes.

Policy implications of meta-analysis are also discussed in this book. We will explore how meta-analysis can be used to inform policy decisions and to evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies. We will also discuss the challenges associated with using meta-analysis in policy-making, such as the need for robust study designs, the potential for bias and confounding, and the need for transparent reporting of methods and results.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of meta-analysis methods and applications. It is designed to be useful for graduate students and researchers new to the field, as well as for practitioners who want to apply meta-analysis in their work. With its emphasis on real-world examples, data, and software code, this book is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in learning more about this powerful statistical method.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367539689