@article{ref1,
title="The moderating effects of population characteristics: a potential biasing factor when employing non-random samples to conduct experimental research",
journal="Journal of experimental criminology",
year="2023",
author="Silver, Ian A. and Kelsay, James D.",
volume="19",
number="1",
pages="107-118",
abstract="OBJECTIVES  Due to time and financial limitations, most randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are conducted employing non-random sampling techniques. Although valuable, when the unique characteristics of a non-random sample unknowingly interact with the treatment, the results of the RCT could become biased. Nevertheless, the amount of bias remains unexamined.   Methods  The current study evaluated if non-random sampling techniques could bias the slope coefficients of an RCT when an interaction exists between the treatment and a characteristic in the population using two simulation analyses.   Results  The results suggested that the sampling distributions of slope coefficients from an RCT -- across random specifications -- expand drastically when (1) an interaction between the treatment and a characteristic in the population exists and (2) the non-random sample has unique scores on that characteristic.   Conclusions  Considering these findings, four recommendations are made for scholars currently or intending to conduct a RCT employing non-random sampling techniques.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1573-3750",
doi="10.1007/s11292-021-09478-7",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11292-021-09478-7"
}