What is expectation bias?

Expectation bias refers to the tendency for investigators to form conclusions based on pre-existing beliefs or expectations rather than relying on objective evidence. This phenomenon can lead to premature conclusions about fire causes, as individuals may unconsciously overlook or disregard information that contradicts their initial assumptions.

In the context of fire investigation, this can be particularly problematic, as it may result in a skewed understanding of the incident’s cause. An investigator influenced by expectation bias might focus on specific evidence that supports a preconceived theory while neglecting important details that could lead to a different conclusion. Thus, it's crucial for fire investigators to thoroughly examine all data and maintain an open mind to avoid this bias, ensuring the investigation is sound and credible.

The other choices emphasize processes like gathering data or maintaining objectivity, which are essential parts of an investigation but do not directly define expectation bias as described.