NCJ Number
223602
Journal
Journal of Experimental Criminology Volume: 4 Issue: 2 Dated: June 2008 Pages: 165-185
Date Published
June 2008
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This study applied the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) to randomized controlled trials to assess their methodological quality.
Abstract
The findings show that some items were fully endorsed (e.g., the aim of the study) whereas other items, such as sample size estimations, were not presented in any of the trials. The degree of reporting transparency in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) is an important factor when the validity of any results is being considered. The use of the CONSORT guidelines has improved the reporting standards of RCTs in many healthcare journals, but these guidelines have yet to be adopted universally. The work also assessed the number of CONSORT items reported in each trial and investigated the extent of endorsement by journal editors. A minority of journals supported the use of the CONSORT Statement in their journals’ instructions for authors. The overall reporting standard for this sample of trials was, therefore, mixed. Comparisons with trials conducted in other disciplines were also discussed, and suggestions for improving reporting standards presented. In this study, the CONSORT Statement was applied to RCTs identified from a systematic review of mental health provisions for juvenile offenders. These trials had been published between January 2001 and December 2006. Five key eligibility criteria were employed to decide whether a study was relevant for the review. Of 20 trials identified, all met the eligibility criteria. Tables, figure, references