The current phase of social sciences research: A thematic overview of the literature

• Main Authors: Sunday Samson Babalola, Chiyem Lucky Nwanzu
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor & Francis Group 2021-01-01
• Series: Cogent Social Sciences
• Subjects: meta-analysis; mixed-method; open access; authorship; result reporting; misconduct; methodological challenge
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/23311886.2021.1892263

Social sciences research (SSR) is an enterprise that is continuously evolving, but not without some debilitating issues that impede the realization of its full potential and usefulness. SSR, as a human initiative and activity, is discussed. The paper features the current methods and authorship issues that enhance the research outcomes’ validity. The argument advanced because while scholars continue to explore processes for research advancement, minimize where possible by putting an end to vices such as falsification, plagiarism, inappropriate methodology, and wrong data analysis. At the same time, while significant challenges are related to misconduct and dishonesty. The present paper expanded and updated the literature and proposed bringing the resources available to the social science researchers to enhance research outcomes. Overall, the paper recommends continuous strives for tools, and process enhancement and a demonstration of integrity by the stakeholders in SSR conduct to achieve field acceptance.