Peer review:

• What is peer review?

  Before publication, all aspects of the investigation are scrutinised by experts ('peers') in the field.

  These experts should be objective and uknown to the researcher.
• What are some of the aims of peer review?

  • Funding: allocate research funding
  • Validation of the quality and relevance of the research
  • Improvements and amendments are suggested
• What are the three forms of peer review?

  1. Single-blind review
  2. Double-blind review
  3. Open review
• What is a single-blind review?

  In a single-blind review, the reviewers remain anonymous. This is thought to reduce bias. However, reviewers may hide behind their veil of anonymity to be undeservedly harsh.
• What is a Double-Blind review?

  In a double-blind review, both the reviewers and the researcher remain anonymous. This is thought to reduce bias based upon the researcher's gender, age, ethnicity and fame. However, it is likely that the researcher will be identifiable from their writing and research style.
• What is an Open review?

  In an open review, the reviewers and the researcher are known to each other. This is thought to encourage honest reviewing. However, it may be that deserved criticism is watered down due to politeness or fear of retribution from famous, powerful researchers.
• What is a strength of peer review?

  • Protects quality of published research
  • Minimises possibility of fraudulent research and means published research is of the highest quality
  • Preserves the reputation of psychology as a science and increases the credibility and status of the subject.