Q: What are experimenter effects?

Experimenter effect (not ‘effects’) is the tendency on the part of the experimenter/researcher to influence the participants or to interpret the data/findings to arrive at the result they are seeking to obtain. This is typically done subconsciously, though it may be done consciously as well. It is demonstrated in the form of various biases the experimenter displays during the experiment or when analyzing the results. The obvious issue with this is that it leads to either skewed or entirely unfounded results, which therefore do not allow the experiment to be reproducible, one of the prime purposes of doing research. In other words, it is unideal research behavior.

For more insights into research bias, you may find these resources helpful:

• 7 Biases to avoid in qualitative research
• 4 Statistical errors researchers should avoid at all costs
• How should I respond to a reviewer's comment regarding selection bias?

Additionally, you may visit this external page for more information on various types of biases that may creep in during research.

Hope that helps. Here’s to always being ethical in research!