Concerns About Replicability Across Two Crises in Social Psychology

Area of Science:

• Social Psychology
• Psychological Science

Background:

• Social psychology has experienced two major crises of confidence.
• The first crisis occurred from the 1960s to the 1970s, and the second crisis emerged in the 2010s.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the similarities and differences between these two crises in social psychology.
• To focus on how researchers discussed concerns about the replicability of findings during both periods.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of extensive quotes from articles published during the 1960s-1970s and 2010s crises.
• Comparative examination of discussions on research replicability.

Main Results:

• Identifies parallels and divergences in how replicability was discussed across the two crises.
• Explores reasons for increased attention to failed replications in the second crisis.
• Highlights the ongoing lack of incentives for conducting replication studies.

Conclusions:

• Replication concerns have been a recurring issue in social psychology.
• Large-scale research projects are crucial for driving change and improving scientific rigor.
• Understanding past crises can inform current practices and future directions in the field.