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MENTAL MODEL · M4020

Publication Bias

Publication Bias
DecideHigh supportDecision Science
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

In academic publishing, there is a tendency to publish statistically significant or "interesting" research results, while ignoring null results or studies with no findings. This leads to a literature filled with "false positives," distorting the true scientific evidence base.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

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Evidence base assessment. In literature reviews, evidence-based decision-making, and scientific research, understanding the potential systematic bias in published literature. Helps us evaluate research evidence more comprehensively and actively seek out those "file drawer" null results.

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The selective preference of the publication system for significant and interesting results leaves null results in the "file drawer," causing the published literature to be overall biased towards false positives, systematically distorting the evidence base. It is the same concept as "Publication Bias" with two Chinese translations.

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Source support: Explicit

  • link
    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Publication_biasZH · Explicit
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