The utility of cumulative meta-analysis: application to programs for reducing sexual violence.
Recent advances in meta-analytic techniques provide a useful framework for interpreting the findings of individual studies. Simple formula are presented for determining whether the results of a single study are statistically different from the cumulative average of previous studies, and for calculating the new cumulative average. When applied to two controversial social policies (treatment of sexual offenders; rape prevention programs for college women), cumulative meta-analyses suggested patterns that were not identified by the authors of the individual studies nor by narrative reviews of these content areas.
Hanson
R Karl
RK
Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada, Ottawa, Ontario. Karl.Hanson@psepc-sppcc.gc.ca
Broom
Ian
I
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015201:Meta-Analysis as Topic; D012107:Research Design; D012742:Sex Offenses / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016387:Women's Health