Neuromyths in Industrial and Organisational Psychology in South Africa: Prevalence and impact

Abstract

Orientation: Industrial Psychologists (IPs) could significantly benefit from integrating neuroscientific evidence into their practices, provided they critically engage with scholarly research rather than rely on unsupported assertions.

Research purpose: The study aimed to assess the prevalence of neuroscientific misconceptions among IPs, student psychologists, and intern psychologists in South Africa as well as advocate for enhanced foundational knowledge in applied organisational neuroscience within industrial psychology.

Motivation for the study: The emerging field of organisational neuroscience, which applies brain science to workplace behaviour, is particularly vulnerable to misconceptions that could hinder its development.

Research approach/design and method: Using a cross-sectional survey, this research evaluated the knowledge of neuro misconceptions at one point in time within a convenience sample of (n = 98), consisting of registered student psychologists (n = 7; 7%), intern psychologists (n = 8; 10%), and IPs (n = 83; 85%).

Main findings: Results indicated that this sample endorses many neuromyth conceptions. There was significant disparity in the endorsement of misconceptions between those with and without neuroscientific training, highlighting a knowledge gap.

Practical/managerial implications: These findings underscore the necessity for improved education in applied organisational neuroscience among IOPs, suggesting integration into training and education programs.

Contribution/value-add: This pioneering study in South Africa emphasises the role of general knowledge, specific training in applied organisational neuroscience, and critical thinking in psychological research as key to combating neuromyths, marking a meaningful contribution to the field.