When No Difference Does Not Mean There Is No Difference: The Blight of the Type II Error

Much focus in research has been given to minimizing type I errors, where we incorrectly conclude that there is a difference between two treatments or populations. On the other hand, our standard scientific method and power analysis allows for a much higher rate of type II errors, in which we fail to show a difference when, in fact, one exists ( ≥20% rate of type II errors, versus ≤5% rate of type I errors). Additional factors that can cause type II errors may propel their prevalence to well in excess of 20%.

Source: Arthroscopy - Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery - February 10, 2021 Category: Surgery Authors: Benjamin G. Domb, Payam W. Sabetian Tags: Level V Evidence Source Type: research