Editorial: The first cut is the deepest: why do the reported effects of treatments decline over trials?

摘要

In a previous editorial for this journal (September 2010), I focused on the importance of null results and their role in moving the science of psychopa-thology forward. I revisit this theme here, now focusing on intervention science, inspired, in part, by a recent provocative paper in The New Yorker entitled The truth wears off (Lehrer, 2010). Written for a general audience, this article inspired discussion, sometimes heated, among both members of the public and scientists. It is highly relevant to the mission of JCPP and therefore worth additional commentary here.