What is meant by publication bias?

Publication bias refers to the tendency to publish positive or significant results more frequently than negative or inconclusive outcomes. This skew in the publication process can lead to a distorted understanding of research findings, as studies that do not show a beneficial effect or that yield null results might remain unpublished.

When only positive results are shared in scientific literature, it creates a misleading perception of effectiveness or success in research areas, as the available evidence does not reflect the complete set of studies conducted. Researchers and practitioners may rely on published data to make decisions, inadvertently favoring interventions or treatments that are not necessarily more effective than those that were not published due to negative results. Recognizing and addressing publication bias is crucial for achieving balanced and accurate evidence-informed practice.