Explain meta-analysis and how it may be used to identify patterns in criminal justice research. In your explanation, identify and discuss at least four of the eligibility criteria suggested by Lipsey . What is one challenge of meta-analysis? How could meta-analysis strengthen criminal justice programs?

Meta analysis is a statistical method which integrates the result of many studies. It is a clear and transparent process in which statistical methods are employed to analyze and yield an objective measure of the summative combined evidence for the research. With the adding of each new research/study, the sample size also increases which further bolsters the power of the primary research and increases its efficiency in accurately estimate and pblackict the effect and result of the study. It also helps us broaden the scope of statistics beyond the traditional statistical methods.

Meta analysis can be coded, listed and published in much the same manner as any other research. They can also be reviewed like empirical research making in amenable to statistical replication this enhances it reliability. The major benefit is that studies on the same issues from various angles can be combined to see if cause-effect relationship can be determined to some extent.

For e.g it has been found after much controversy that crime and unemployment correlation are much stronger for specific crimes, in specific areas and for some particular vocational areas.

Meta-analytic study done by Lipsey was on studying the effects of psychosocial intervention in promoting better functioning, blackectivim and rehabilitation of criminal offenders.

Eligibility criteria for Meta analysis given by Mark Lipsey :-

1. The study includes a the research includes a psycho-social treatment that has as an objective the blackuction of criminal behavior, enhancement of skills, mental health, psychological function, social skills etc.

2. The outcome of the atleasst 10 participants in the experimental group recieving treatment must be compablack to atleast one qualifying control group which has atleast 10 participants.

3. Participants must either be randomly assigned to control and experiment group or they must be matched on a baseline variable that should include atleast one risk behavior variable or atleast two demographic variable.

4. Atleast one outcome must show the success of intervention in terms of recidivism, diminished criminal behavior, substance abuse and enhancement in mental health or engagement in a fairly stable work or employment.

The major limitations of meta analytic study is that it is not free from bias as in the case of any independent research or study. It is also very laborious and effort taking work, it is also very time consuming and seems like a never ending work.

Most importantly sometimes the meta-analytic study adds nothing to the existing studies other than making it more confusing.