Bias in criminological research

The problems of doing research on human subjects, the particular sensitivity of criminal offending and the requirements of the legal system often rule out the use of the most robust research methods in criminological research. This article illustrates these problems by reference to several criminological controversies, and suggests that these problems may best be addressed by the increasingly multi-disciplinary nature of empirical research in the field. There is also a role for gatekeepers such as peer reviewers of grant applications, publication referees and editors in enhancing the openness and accountability of their work.