Engaging in literature review, synthesis, and meta-analysis: A few considerations for family scholars

Abstract

Given their value, literature reviews and syntheses are featured in numerous family-centered academic journals, including the flagship journals of the National Council on Family Relations. Although literature reviews and syntheses, including meta-analyses, have been published in family-centered academic journals for decades, the application of these methods to topics germane to family science has increased substantially over time. This trend—coupled with a desire to support the conduct of high-quality literature reviews and syntheses in family science—prompted the development of this article, which aims to provide an efficient, didactic overview of common literature review and synthesis approaches, including meta-analysis. This article also offers several considerations intended to support family scholars' efforts to develop strong literature reviews, syntheses, and meta-analyses, particularly ones intended for publication in family-centered academic journals. The skillful application of these methods will support family scholars' continued efforts to enrich, guide, and advance family science.