Type of Errors in Research
Type of Errors in Research
Hypothesis testing is a vital activity for medical related research and evidence-based practice. Thus, it is more common in the medical world. In hypothesis testing, two types of errors are possible. They include type one and type two errors. In type one error, one rejects the null hypothesis when it is true. On the other hand, a type two error occurs whenever one accepts the null hypothesis, and it is false(Burns, Grove, & Gray, 2011). A researcher aiming to test a hypothesis, therefore, must ensure that these types of errors are minimal or non-existent at all cost. Thus, of the essence of this discussion, is distinguishing the type of error that is easy to address and the remedy that can achieve that function.
First and most importantly, is the distinction of which type of error is the easiest to evade. Of the two, type two errors are much easier to address than type one error though the consequences of type one are more severe than type two. Such is the case given the possibility of minimal harm of asserting that the null hypothesis is true when it is false(Burns, Grove, & Gray, 2011). For instance, accepting the null hypothesis that steroids are not effective in the management of shock has minimal effects on the person. On the hand, rejecting this null hypothesis will result in profound effects, as there would be the utilization of the steroids in the treatment of shock. Such an action is detrimental to the patient.
Lastly, the type 2 errors are easy to manage through various strategies. For instance, increasing the sample size will reduce the risk of committing this error. Also, controlling the confounding variables will enable the researcher to eliminate this error(Burns, Grove, & Gray, 2011). Evidently, these actions are proof enough of the ease to manage this challenge.
In closure, a researcher must strike a balance whenever he/she manages the two types of errors. The suitability of eliminating any of the two kinds of error is dependent on the effects they have on the study. Thus, assessing the effect of either of the two errors is of the essence in choosing which type to eliminate.
References
Burns, N., Grove, S., & Gray, J. (2011).Understanding nursing research (1st ed.). Maryland Heights, MO: Elsevier/Saunders.
