Clinically, what ought we to believe?. (February 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Little, John D; Davison, Lorraine; Little, Robert D
• Is Part Of: Australasian psychiatry. Volume 27:Number 1(2019:Feb.)
• Page Start: 72
• Page End: 74
• Publication Date: 2019-02
• Subjects: conflicting opinions -- hierarchies of evidence -- randomised controlled trials; Psychiatry -- Australasia -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1177/1039856218810160
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1039-8562

Abstract

Objective: To question the status of the randomised controlled trial (RCT) in the hierarchy of evidence. Conclusions: The RCT provides important and clinically relevant information, particularly in psychopharmacology. However, and as with other methodologies, RCTs too are flawed and automatic abdication to their conclusions, especially in complex social interventions, is unwise. A clinical example with conflicting and polarising views, each with their evidence base, is described alongside a suggested clinical strategy for resolving differences of opinion.