Research bias refers to systematic errors that can affect the validity of research findings. It occurs when the design, conduct, or analysis of a study leads to results that are skewed or not representative of the true situation. This can happen due to various factors, such as the selection of participants, the way data is collected, or the interpretation of results. There are different types of research bias, including selection bias, confirmation bias, and publication bias. Selection bias occurs when certain groups are overrepresented or underrepresented in a study. Confirmation bias happens when researchers favor information that supports their hypotheses, while publication bias refers to the tendency to publish only positive or significant results, leaving out negative or inconclusive findings.