Title: Becoming an Informed Consumer of Psychology
Headings: How to Become an Informed Consumer of Psychology Research
How to Become an Informed Consumer of Psychology Research
Some tips for making sense of psychology research in the news
1. Consider the Source
2. Be Skeptical of Sensational or Shocking Claims
3. Evaluate the Research Methods
4. Remember That Anecdotes Do Not Equal Data
5. Consider Who Funded the Research
6. Realize That Correlation Does Not Equal Causation
A Word From Verywell

Content: 4. Remember That Anecdotes Do Not Equal Data
Be wary of stories or reports that rely solely on anecdotal stories to back up their claims. Just because a small group of individuals has arrived at a similar conclusion does not mean that the population at large shares this view. Scientific research utilizes random sampling and other research methods to help ensure that the results of a study can be generalized to the rest of the population. Any report that relies on a “This is true for me, so it must be true for everyone else” justification should be viewed with skepticism. Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research
5. Consider Who Funded the Research
In evaluating psychological research, it is also important to consider the financial backers who supported the study. Funding can come from a variety of sources including government agencies, non-profit groups, and large corporations. Be cautious when the results of a study seem to support the agenda of an organization whose goal is to sell products or convince people to share their viewpoint. While such funding sources do not necessarily invalidate the results of a study, you should always be on the lookout for potential conflicts of interest.