The Importance of Rigorous Methods in a Growing Research Field

Abstract

A rigorous field of research is constructed on reproducible findings that allow researchers to confidently formulate hypotheses and build theories from accessible literature. As a nascent area of research, the study of Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) has the opportunity to become such a field through the adoption of transparent and open research practices. In this paper I outline five such practices that can help achieve this aim: Preregistration, sharing data and code, sharing materials, posting preprints, and collaboration. Failing to adopt such principles could allow the proliferation of findings that are irreproducible and delay the progress of the field.