Which of the following best describes selective observation?

Selective observation refers to the tendency to focus on data or information that confirms existing beliefs or hypotheses while ignoring or discounting evidence that contradicts those beliefs. This cognitive bias can significantly impact the objectivity of research and the evaluation of social work practices, as it can lead to a distorted understanding of a situation or client needs.

By choosing to highlight information that aligns with preconceived notions, practitioners may miss important insights or fail to recognize alternative interpretations of data, which can hinder effective decision-making and practice implementation. In contrast, observing without bias, conducting randomized studies, and gathering client feedback each involve approaches aimed at obtaining a more comprehensive and accurate view of reality, thus avoiding the limitations associated with selective observation.