Probability and Statistical Biases
Nonresponse bias
People who do not respond differ from those who do.
What Is Nonresponse bias?
Nonresponse bias is a thinking trap where people who do not respond differ from those who do.
How It Tricks You
It can make noisy, incomplete, or poorly framed data feel more meaningful than it is.
Real-World Example
Only the angriest customers fill out the feedback form.
Seen Online As
- I am judging the person before I understand the situation.
- The group label is doing too much of the thinking.
- My side gets context; their side gets blame.
What To Ask Instead
Who did not answer?
Related Thinking Traps
Common Situations
Quick FAQ
What is Nonresponse bias?
People who do not respond differ from those who do.
What is an example of Nonresponse bias?
Only the angriest customers fill out the feedback form.
How do I spot Nonresponse bias?
Who did not answer?