Replication in Prevention Science

Jeffrey C. Valentine, Anthony Biglan, Robert F. Boruch, Felipe González Castro, Linda M. Collins, Brian R. Flay, Sheppard Kellam, Eve K. Mościcki, Steven P. Schinke

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Replication research is essential for the advancement of any scientific field. In this paper, we argue that prevention science will be better positioned to help improve public health if (a) more replications are conducted; (b) those replications are systematic, thoughtful, and conducted with full knowledge of the trials that have preceded them; and (c) state-of-the art techniques are used to summarize the body of evidence on the effects of the interventions. Under real-world demands it is often not feasible to wait for multiple replications to accumulate before making decisions about intervention adoption. To help individuals and agencies make better decisions about intervention utility, we outline strategies that can be used to help understand the likely direction, size, and range of intervention effects as suggested by the current knowledge base. We also suggest structural changes that could increase the amount and quality of replication research, such as the provision of incentives and a more vigorous pursuit of prospective research registers. Finally, we discuss methods for integrating replications into the roll-out of a program and suggest that strong partnerships with local decision makers are a key component of success in replication research. Our hope is that this paper can highlight the importance of replication and stimulate more discussion of the important elements of the replication process. We are confident that, armed with more and better replications and state-of-the-art review methods, prevention science will be in a better position to positively impact public health.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)103-117
Number of pages15
JournalPrevention Science
Volume12
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2011

Keywords

  • Effectiveness
  • Meta-Analysis
  • Replication
  • Reproducibility
  • Systematic Review

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Replication in Prevention Science'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this