The problem of bogus behavioural research

Dave Burke  |  Comment
Date posted:  10 Feb 2026
Share Add       
The problem of bogus behavioural research

Photo by Mina Rad on Unsplash

One of my catchphrases is, "Psychology and theology can be friends." We have the truth in Christ, but we also benefit from God’s common grace to humanity through science.

However, it is very important – especially in psychology - that you are careful about the science.

'Pop-psychology'

Pop-psychology is popular and there are rich rewards to be made by writers and researchers. A number of psychologists have become like rock stars during the first quarter of this century. David Comerford, Professor of Economics at Stirling University describes this era: “It’s almost like the more simplistic you could make your theory, the more fun, the more likely it was that you were going to get big rewards."

Share
< Previous article| Comment| Next article >
Read more articles on:   psychology  /  science  /  theology
Read more articles by Dave Burke >>
Features
Why theology and psychology need to be friends

Why theology and psychology need to be friends

Please note: This article contains reference to attempted suicide and mental distress. For help and support, see the bottom of …

Features
'The gospel is Jesus Christ'

'The gospel is Jesus Christ'

A friend of mine is the youngest chaplain in the British Army, so they have sent him to train with …

Looking for a job?

Browse all our current job adverts

Search

Need to advertise?

We can help you reach Christians across the country

Find out more