Final answer:
Confirmation bias is the tendency to choose a test that confirms our hypothesis rather than disconfirms it. It occurs when we search for, interpret, favor, and recall information that aligns with our prior beliefs. This bias can lead to biased and unreliable conclusions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Confirmation bias is the tendency to search for, interpret, favor, and recall information that confirms or supports our prior beliefs. This bias can lead us to choose a test that will confirm our hypothesis rather than disconfirm it. For example, if we believe that a new treatment is effective, we may only look for evidence that supports our belief and ignore any contradictory evidence. This can lead to a biased and unreliable conclusion.