Relying on experts

In May 2003, MediaWise was contacted by psychologist Dr Petra Boynton, an advice columnist, writer, and lecturer in Health Services Research at University College London.

She was keen to raise awareness among journalists and the public about the quality of scientific expertise supplied by the media. Are those quoted the best qualified, or simply the easiest ones to contact? And how can the layperson judge the value of research cited in the media?

You can find out more about Petra and her work on her website.