Assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards causal directed acyclic graphs: a qualitative research project

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Health Research
• Causal Inference

Background:

• Causal graphs are essential for valid causal effect estimates.
• Applied researchers need guidance on developing and using causal graphs.
• Limited literature exists on practical application of causal graphs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand researcher adoption of causal graphs (DAGs).
• To identify barriers and facilitators to DAGs use in epidemiology and health research.
• To assess knowledge, interest, attitudes, and practices regarding causal graphs.

Main Methods:

• Survey distributed via Twitter and Society for Epidemiologic Research.
• Targeted practicing epidemiologists and medical researchers.
• Assessed knowledge, interest, attitudes, and practices related to causal graphs.

Main Results:

• A majority of participants are comfortable using causal graphs and use them regularly.
• Training improves comprehension of causal graph assumptions.
• Lack of knowledge is a significant barrier for non-users.
• Interest in causal graphs is high among researchers.

Conclusions:

• Causal graphs are of significant interest to epidemiologists and medical researchers.
• Barriers to uptake include lack of knowledge and insufficient training.
• Additional training, clearer guidance, and methodological advancements are needed for wider adoption.