What is confirmation bias?

Confirmation bias refers to when testing is directed towards the proving of an already existing hypothesis, as opposed to researching information in a non-biased objective way that may result in evidence that conflicts with the already existing hypothesis. For example, if someone was to conduct research into the effects of caffiene and concentration they would solely focus on the short-term effects of caffiene and the surge of focus, rather than also considering the long-term introduction of fatigue as a result of caffiene consumption.

CF
Answered by Christopher F. Psychology tutor

2475 Views

See similar Psychology A Level tutors

Related Psychology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Define Social Learning Theory


What is the working memory model?


Can you give me a breakdown of how to answer 'discuss' questions?


Outline the structure of the personality according to the psychodynamic approach (4 marks)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning