The crisis of confidence in social psychology.

Abstract

Notes that social psychologists’ early enthusiasm has been replaced by serious doubts about the future of their field. Difficulties in conducting research, unfulfilled expectations about research payoffs, and outside pressures had all contributed to a sense of crisis. Relief may come from acceptance of theoretical and methodological pluralism, from reevaluation of research expectations and ethical stances, and from the development of realistic responses to societal demands.