Uncovering Jingle and Jangle Fallacies

Abstract

Abstract: Jingle and jangle fallacies refer to conceptual inconsistencies in psychological research, where either different constructs are labeled with the same term (jingle) or one construct is referred to by multiple names (jangle). This systematic review, conducted according to PRISMA guidelines, includes 81 peer-reviewed articles and preprints identified across six databases: Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, ERIC, Wiley, and PsyArXiv. Included studies span areas such as motivation and achievement, personality, emotions and well-being, work and organizational psychology, methodology, and biological psychology. Five tools were identified that aim to detect or prevent jingle and/or jangle fallacies. Researchers primarily used theoretical analyses, factor analytic methods, meta-analyses, and natural language processing (NLP). Findings suggest these fallacies are widespread, signaling the need for more precise definitions, better construct validity, and systematic measurement. Especially NLP-based approaches at the scale and item level seem promising for identifying these issues and enhancing conceptual clarity across psychology.

Topics & Concepts