An effect size primer: A guide for clinicians and researchers.

TLDR

Effect‑size reporting is increasingly emphasized in social science research, yet its use remains inconsistent, confusing, and clinicians lack clear guidance on appropriate estimates. This article offers a primer on effect‑size estimates tailored to social science research. It presents common effect‑size metrics, their applications, and interpretations as a practical guide for researchers.

Abstract

Increasing emphasis has been placed on the use of effect size reporting in the analysis of social science data. Nonetheless, the use of effect size reporting remains inconsistent, and interpretation of effect size estimates continues to be confused. Researchers are presented with numerous effect sizes estimate options, not all of which are appropriate for every research question. Clinicians also may have little guidance in the interpretation of effect sizes relevant for clinical practice. The current article provides a primer of effect size estimates for the social sciences. Common effect sizes estimates, their use, and interpretations are presented as a guide for researchers.