Research synthesis reviews: an illustrated critique of "hidden" judgments, choices, and compromises

Abstract

This paper takes a pragmatic view of the steps involved in conducting a quantitative literature review. It emphasizes the multitude of judgments, choices, and compromises commonly encountered. Examination of a meta-analysis study of implosion therapy outcome research is provided as a structured means of illustrating and constructively considering questions, decisions, and issues likely to arise at each stage of the review process. The discussion should prove useful to prospective meta-analysis researchers and consumers. An extensive set of references that characterize contemporary meta-analysis research is also included.