Conducting systematic reviews of applied interventions: A comment on Cabral et al. (2022).

Abstract

1 In their recent systematic review and meta-analysis, Cabral et al. (2022) explored the effects 2 of implicit motor learning under pressure conditions. As a stated focus, they aimed to address the 3 previously inconsistent findings in the literature and provide clarity to researchers and practitioners. 4 Although we agree that such clarity is needed, we contend that there are critical methodological and 5 procedural concerns that prevent this systematic review from achieving its objectives. In this 6 commentary, we lay out these specific concerns in light of recent debates in this research area and the 7 demands of real-world sporting contexts. More generally, we also call attention to important 8 principles to consider when planning a systematic review of interventions in order to maximise 9 contributions to the literature and usefulness for applied psychology practice. 10