Revisiting Bias in Qualitative Research

Recognizing and understanding research bias is crucial for determining the utility of study results and an essential aspect of evidence-based decision-making in the health professions. Research proposals and manuscripts that do not provide satisfactory detail on the mechanisms employed to minimize bias are unlikely to be viewed favorably. But what are the rules for qualitative research studies? Whenever I am reviewing a thesis, manuscript, or research proposal involving qualitative research and I come across attempts to manage “bias,” it always gives me cause for concern. Here, I outline the reasons for my concern and reflect on whether the growing tendency of qualitative researchers trying to manage “bias” in their work is due to the increasing pressure to demonstrate research outputs lead to quantifiable impact.