Social science research is most likely to be challenged when which of the following occurs?

• A. The research is peer-reviewed and published in reputable journals.
• B. The research follows ethical guidelines and obtains informed consent.
• C. The research lacks replicability and cannot be reproduced by other scientists.
• D. The research uses standardized procedures and objective measurements.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of replicability in social science research, which refers to the ability of other researchers to reproduce the results of a study using the same methods and procedures.
2. Recognize that peer review, ethical guidelines, and standardized procedures are important for research quality but do not guarantee that findings can be replicated.
3. Identify that research lacking replicability is challenged because it raises doubts about the reliability and validity of the findings.
4. Consider why reproducibility is crucial: it helps confirm that results are not due to chance, bias, or unique conditions of a single study.
5. Conclude that when research cannot be replicated, it undermines confidence in the conclusions and is therefore most likely to be challenged.