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Specifying Inclusion Criteria for a Meta-Analysis: Lessons and Illustrations From a Quantitative Synthesis of Crime Reduction Experiments

NCJ Number
155948
Author(s)
Date Published
January 1995
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This article presents problems and illustrations from the first phase of an ongoing meta-analysis of crime-reduction programs.
Abstract
Meta-analysis, a research method referred to as the quantitative analysis of studies, has been used extensively in social science. Along with the proliferation of meta-analysis as a research methodology, there is some evidence that it may be influential with policy and program decisionmakers. Practitioners look for more conclusive evidence before taking action and find a meta-analysis of many studies bearing on the issue more persuasive than a single one. Following a discussion of the importance of defining the inclusion criteria for the studies included in the meta-analysis, the eight study inclusions criteria for this study are listed. These research criteria distinguish this study from nearly all prior meta-analyses of intervention efficacy in criminal justice. Recommendations are that the specification of inclusion criteria be given careful consideration before the document-retrieval phase; inclusion criteria may need to be redefined when "gray-area" studies are found; and before specifying inclusion criteria, decide whether it may be better to include "gray-area" studies in a future meta- analysis. 5 notes and 64 references

Date Published: January 1, 1995