The only thing that can stop bad causal inference is good causal inference

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Causal Inference
• Generalizability

Background:

• Causal inference in psychology is frequently conducted informally.
• Assumptions underlying causal inference are often unstated.
• Potential limitations are typically identified retrospectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for the adoption of coherent frameworks in psychological research.
• To address the informal approach to causal inference and generalizability.
• To encourage the integration of established methodologies from other fields.

Main Methods:

• This study is a conceptual review and theoretical argument.
• It analyzes the current state of causal inference in psychological research.
• It draws upon existing frameworks from related scientific disciplines.

Main Results:

• Current practices in psychological causal inference lack rigor.
• Unarticulated assumptions and retrospective identification of flaws hinder scientific progress.
• Established frameworks offer more systematic approaches.

Conclusions:

• Psychology should transition from casual causal inference to structured, coherent frameworks.
• Adopting established methods will improve the validity and generalizability of research findings.
• This shift is crucial for advancing the field of psychology.