systematic error

error in which the data values obtained from a sample deviate by a fixed amount from the true values within the population. For example, a scale that repeatedly provides readings 0.5 g lower than the true weight would be demonstrating systematic error. Systematic errors tend to be consistently positive or negative and may occur as a result of sampling bias or measurement error. Compare random error.

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Psychology term of the day

March 14th 2025

flight into reality

a defensive reaction in which an individual becomes overinvolved in activity and work as an unconscious means of avoiding threatening situations or painful thoughts and feelings. Compare flight from reality; flight into fantasy.