Enhancing transparency of the research process to increase accuracy of findings: A guide for relationship researchers

Authors

Lorne Campbell, University of Western OntarioFollow
Timothy J. Loving, University of Texas at Austin
Etienne P. LeBel, Montclair State University

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Winter 12-2014

Journal

Personal Relationships

Volume

4

Issue

21

First Page

531

Last Page

545

URL with Digital Object Identifier

10.1111/pere.12053

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to extend to the field of relationship science, recent discussions and suggested changes in open research practises. We demonstrate different ways that greater transparency of the research process in our field will accelerate scientific progress by increasing accuracy of reported research findings. Importantly, we make concrete recommendations for how relationship researchers can transition to greater disclosure of research practices in a manner that is sensitive to the unique design features of methodologies employed by relationship scientists. We discuss how to implement these recommendations for four different research designs regularly used in relationship research and practical limitations regarding implementing our recommendations and provide potential solutions to these problems.

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