Never Waste a Good Crisis: Lessons Learned from Data Fraud and Questionable Research Practices

This book discusses the statistical consequences of breaches of research integrity, such as fabrication and falsification of data, and how inadequate mastery of statistical methods can lead to questionable research practices. The author proposes solutions such as publishing data in publicly available repositories and encouraging researchers to seek professional support. He also discusses the challenges of revealing colleagues' integrity breaches and the counter-intuitive nature of statistics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 07 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the profound statistical implications of breaches of research integrity, encompassing fabrication and falsification of data, as well as researcher glitches often referred to as questionable research practices. What sets this work apart is its unique focus on the detrimental impact of unwarranted data manipulation on research outcomes, as well as the frequent occurrence of such practices due to researchers' inadequate mastery of the statistical methods and procedures employed for data analysis. The authors propose a solution to address concerns about the trustworthiness of research results, irrespective of their origin, by advocating for the publication of data in publicly accessible repositories and encouraging researchers who lack formal training in statistics to seek professional support from statisticians or methodologists.

The author also shares personal anecdotes related to trust, fear of repercussions, and the bystander effect, which serve as impediments to the disclosure of colleagues' potential integrity breaches. He elucidates why individuals struggle to replicate real data and why data fabrication through statistical models remains inherently lacking in credibility. The book explores the significance of confirmatory and exploratory research, the value of preregistration, and the counterintuitive nature of statistics. It raises critical questions about the effectiveness of statistical advice, such as frequentist hypothesis testing, Bayes-factor use, alternative statistics education, and measures to reduce situational disturbances like performance pressure, as standalone strategies to mitigate questionable research practices in the absence of statistical expertise.

To further enhance the reader's understanding, an interview with the author is included, offering insights into their experiences, perspectives, and efforts to combat fraud and sloppiness in research. This interview provides a valuable supplementary resource for those interested in this critical topic.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032183749