This study examines the attitudes and frequency of engagement with open science practices (OSPs) like data sharing among early-career (ECRs) and senior psychology researchers (non-ECRs) in North America. Given the growing emphasis on transparency and reproducibility in scientific research, understanding how these practices are perceived and implemented at different career stages is crucial for improving research quality. We analyzed survey data from 290 psychology researchers in Canada and the United States, looking at their attitudes toward OSPs and how often they engaged in such practices. Results show a gap between positive attitudes toward OSPs and their actual implementation. Content analysis of open-ended responses identified several barriers and incentives to OSPs. Despite widespread agreement on the value of transparency and collaboration, barriers such as career pressures, lack of training, fear of scrutiny, peer resistance, and long-established norms prevent many researchers—but especially ECRs—from fully embracing these practices. This gap between perception and practice highlights the need for changes in academic incentives and infrastructure to better support transparency, reproducibility, and collaboration. We conclude with recommendations to increase engagement in best practices and improve the credibility and transparency of psychological research. Data, study materials, and supplementary resources can be found at: https://osf.io/5mn2x/.
Alter et al. (Wed,) studied this question.