Registreringsbias

Registreringsbias, also known as ascertainment bias or reporting bias, is a type of selection bias that occurs when the data collected for a study or observation are not representative of the population due to systematic differences in how individuals or events are recorded or reported. This bias arises because certain groups or types of data are more likely to be registered or noticed than others.

For example, in medical research, patients who seek medical attention for a specific condition are more likely to be included in a study than those who do not, leading to a skewed understanding of the condition's prevalence or characteristics. Similarly, in surveys, individuals who are more engaged or have stronger opinions might be more likely to respond, influencing the results. In historical records, events that are considered more significant or are documented by the literate population may be overrepresented, while the experiences of marginalized groups might be underreported.

Registreringsbias can lead to inaccurate conclusions and generalizations. Researchers must be aware of this potential bias and implement strategies to mitigate it, such as using diverse data sources, employing rigorous sampling techniques, and considering the limitations of the available data. Recognizing and addressing registreringsbias is crucial for ensuring the validity and reliability of research findings and for making informed decisions based on data.