Statistical reporting trends within forensic psychology journals.

What is it about?

This study looked at how forensic psychology research reported statistics from 2000 to 2020. It found that most studies still rely heavily on traditional significance testing, despite recommendations to use better methods. While reporting of effect sizes and confidence intervals has improved, their use in interpreting results remains limited. Bayesian methods are rarely used.

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Why is it important?

The way statistics are reported affects how research findings are understood and used. Over-reliance on outdated methods like significance testing can lead to oversimplified conclusions and less reliable results. Using better practices—like effect sizes, confidence intervals, and Bayesian methods—can improve the quality, transparency, and usefulness of forensic psychology research. This is especially important given the real-world decisions that are made using this research within the justice system.

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