Abstract
In science, a review article refers to work that provides a comprehensive and systematic summary of results available in a given field while making it possible to see the topic under consideration from a new perspective. Drawing on recent studies by other researchers, the authors of a review article make a critical analysis and summarize, appraise, and classify available data to offer a synthesis of the latest research in a specific subject area, ultimately arriving at new cumulative conclusions.
According to Baumeister and Leary (1997), the goal of such synthesis may include (a) theory development, (b) theory evaluation, (c) a survey of the state of knowledge on a particular topic, (d) problem identification, and (e) provision of a historical account of the development of theory and research on a particular topic. A review can also be useful in science and practical life for many other reasons, such as in policy making (Bero & Jadad, 1997).
Review articles have become necessary to advance addiction science, but providing a systematic summary of existing evidence while coming up with new ideas and pointing out the unique contribution of the work may pose the greatest challenge for inexperienced authors.