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We need to be braver about the generalizability crisis
Todd S Braver1, Sanford L Braver2
1Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Washington University, St. Louis, St. Louis, MO63130, USAtbraver@wustl.edu; http://ccpweb.wustl.edu.
The Behavioral and Brain Sciences
|February 10, 2022
Summary
Psychological research can improve generalizability with existing methods. This study offers practical tools and meta-analytic approaches for researchers to enhance the reach of their findings without pessimism.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Research Methodology
Background:
- Generalizability is a key concern in contemporary psychological research.
- Previous discussions have sometimes adopted a pessimistic outlook on addressing these concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To counter pessimism regarding generalizability in psychological research.
- To present a practical framework for improving generalizability.
Main Methods:
- Outlining a continuum of methodological tools and perspectives.
- Highlighting the utility of incremental steps in research design.
- Emphasizing meta-analytic approaches for synthesizing findings.
Main Results:
- A range of accessible methodological tools are available to researchers.
- These tools can be readily deployed to address generalizability.
- A forward-looking approach can effectively advance generalizability claims.
Conclusions:
- A pessimistic view on generalizability in psychological research is not necessary.
- Researchers can proactively enhance the generalizability of their studies.
- Utilizing existing and meta-analytic methods offers a clear path forward.
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