What is meta analysis primarily used for in research?

Meta-analysis is a statistical technique that provides a comprehensive synthesis of results from multiple studies on a particular research question or topic. By combining findings from different studies, researchers can generate a more robust and generalizable conclusion than is possible with individual studies. This approach helps to identify patterns, inconsistencies, and overall effects across a range of research efforts, thus enhancing the understanding of the phenomenon being studied.

The strength of meta-analysis lies in its ability to aggregate data, allowing for a more reliable estimate of effects or relationships because it increases the sample size and diversity of the data. This method is particularly valuable when individual studies may have limited power or when they present conflicting findings. Consequently, meta-analysis is widely used in fields such as psychology, medicine, and social sciences to establish evidence-based practices and recommendations.