Which of the following is considered a weakness of meta-analysis?

Meta-analysis is a statistical technique that combines results from multiple studies to identify patterns, common findings, or overall effects on particular phenomena. One of the recognized weaknesses of meta-analysis is its susceptibility to methodological flaws within the studies being examined, along with the file-drawer effect.

Methodological flaws can arise when individual studies have design issues, bias, or inconsistencies in data collection and analysis, which can impact the overall conclusions drawn from the meta-analysis. If a large number of studies are poorly conducted, the meta-analysis might yield skewed or inaccurate results.

The file-drawer effect refers to the phenomenon where studies with null or negative results are less likely to be published compared to those with positive outcomes. If many studies are neglected (i.e., tucked away in the "file drawer" because they do not find significant effects), the meta-analysis may only reflect a portion of available data, resulting in an overestimated effect size.

These factors highlight the complexity and potential inaccuracies inherent in meta-analysis, demonstrating why understanding the quality and scope of the included studies is crucial for interpreting results effectively. This understanding emphasizes the importance of critical evaluation when interpreting meta-analytic data.