What is the consequence of using a non-representative sample in research?

Using a non-representative sample in research can indeed lead to skewed results and conclusions. This is because a non-representative sample does not accurately reflect the broader population from which it is drawn. When the sample is biased or lacks diversity, the findings may be based on the perspectives, behaviors, or opinions of only a small subgroup, rather than capturing the views or experiences of the whole population. This misrepresentation can result in flawed generalizations, misleading interpretations of data, and ultimately erroneous conclusions that do not apply universally.

For instance, if a survey about public opinion on a policy is conducted solely among a specific demographic that holds particular views, it won’t effectively encompass the sentiments of different demographic groups, thereby skewing the results. This issue highlights the paramount importance of ensuring that samples used in research are representative, as it is essential for the validity and reliability of the findings. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the potential for misleading results when researchers fail to adhere to representative sampling methods.