Methodological Abuse [Neurosurgery Wiki]

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===== Methodological Abuse =====

**Methodological [[abuse]]** refers to the **[[misuse]], [[distortion]], or unjustified application** of scientific [[method]]s, tools, or statistical techniques in a way that **undermines the validity or integrity** of a study.

==== Common Forms ====
  * Applying a **technique beyond its validated scope** (e.g., using tractography to "map" cranial nerves without resolution to support it).
  * Ignoring **fundamental assumptions** of the method (e.g., statistical independence, normality, spatial resolution).
  * Selecting or combining methods **to produce desired results** rather than to answer the scientific question.
  * Using tools **without appropriate controls or benchmarks**.
  * **Over-interpreting exploratory findings** as confirmatory.

==== Consequences ====
  * Produces **unreliable or misleading conclusions**.
  * May **inflate the perceived novelty or impact** of the study.
  * Undermines **scientific reproducibility** and **transparency**.
  * Contributes to the **erosion of public trust** in scientific findings.