What is the difference between self-selection bias and non-response bias?

Self-selection bias and nonresponse bias are the opposite sides of the same issue: individuals with specific characteristics systematically (i.e., for reasons other than chance) opting in or out of a research study.

Self-selection bias occurs when the decision to participate in a study is left entirely up to individuals. This gives rise to research bias because those who volunteer to take part in research studies are usually different from those who don’t (e.g., in terms of motivation or demographics).

Nonresponse bias refers to the same phenomenon – i.e., systematic differences between those who opt in and those who opt out of a survey. However, nonresponse bias specifically refers to the fact that those unwilling or unable to take part in a study are different from those who do.

In both cases, the sample is no longer representative of the population as a whole.

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This is the “editing” in Scribbr’s standard service. It can only be selected in combination with proofreading.

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Select the Structure Check and Clarity Check to receive a comprehensive edit equivalent to a line edit.

Developmental editing (i.e. content editing, substantive editing)
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Types of editing	Available at Scribbr?
Proofreading Correction of superficial mistakes, such as typos, misspellings, punctuation errors and consistency errors.	Yes! This is the “proofreading” in Scribbr’s standard service. It can only be selected in combination with editing.
Copy editing Focus on grammar, syntax, style, tone and the conventions of the field. The editor also considers the internal logic of the text and flags any obvious contradictions.	Yes! This is the “editing” in Scribbr’s standard service. It can only be selected in combination with proofreading.
Line editing Focus on language, style, concision and choices. The editor helps you strengthen your story, polish your sentences and ensure that your use of language drives home your ideas.	Yes! Select the Structure Check and Clarity Check to receive a comprehensive edit equivalent to a line edit.
Developmental editing (i.e. content editing, substantive editing) This is the first step of the editing process and applies to very early drafts. The editor helps you structure your ideas, decide what story to tell and find direction for your writing.	No. This kind of editing involves heavy rewriting and restructuring. Our editors cannot help with this.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between self-selection bias and non-response bias?

Questions?

Ask our team

Frequently asked questions

How does the sample edit work?