Generalizability challenges in applied psychological and organizational research and practice

Abstract

Yarkoni (2020) highlights patterns of overgeneralization in psychology research. In this comment, we note that such challenges also pertain to applied psychological and organizational research and prac-tice. We use two examples—cross-cultural generalizability and implicit bias training—to illustrate common practices of overgeneralization from narrow research samples to broader operational popula-tions. We conclude with recommendations for research and practice.