Year: 2014
Type: article
Abstract: Comments on the comments made by Brown et al. (see record 2013-24609-001). Brown et al. presented a scathing critique of the work of Fredrickson and Losada (see record 2005-11834-001) on the use of advanced mathematical methods (specifically, nonlinear dynamics) in describing changes in human emotions over time, terming it "entirely unfounded" (p. 802). However, I feel that although their critique serves an important role in identifying potential flaws in the theory, it goes too far by using terms such as "completely illusory 'applications' of mathematics" (p. 812) and may inadvertently discourage junior researchers in pursuing the use of mathematical methods in psychology.
Source: American Psychologist
DOI: 10.1037/a0037068
Author: Andrew Musau
Institutions: University of Trento, University of Agder
Language: English
Subfield: General Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2334693193