What is defined as a systematic deviation from the truth due to uncontrolled variables?

Bias is defined as a systematic deviation from the truth that occurs when the design or conduct of a study results in results that are systematically different from the true values. This distortion can arise from various uncontrolled variables that influence the results, leading to conclusions that do not accurately reflect reality.

When bias occurs, it can skew the data in a way that misrepresents the relationship between variables, ultimately affecting the validity and reliability of the findings. For example, if certain biases are present in the study’s sampling method or data collection techniques, the results may favor one group over another, causing an incorrect interpretation of the evidence.

The other concepts mentioned, such as randomization, control group, and confounding variable, are related to study design and analysis. Randomization helps distribute potential confounding variables evenly among study groups to minimize bias. A control group serves as a benchmark to compare outcomes and eliminate alternative explanations for observed effects. Confounding variables are extraneous factors that can affect the dependent variable and must be controlled to ensure that the results are due to the independent variable under investigation. However, these terms do not intrinsically define the systematic error introduced by uncontrolled variables, which is specifically what bias represents.