Abstract

Examines studies that investigated possible causes and correlates of displacement. Results show lack of conclusiveness for any aspect of displacement, to the extent that the existence of a genuine displacement effect comes into question. Problems in evaluating the studies included widespread post hoc analysis; mulitple analysis; lack of analysis for statistical artifacts that could mimic displacement; lack of consistency in the selection and measurement of variables that might relate to displacement; and failure to distinguish between potentially causative and correlative variables in selecting appropriate analyses. These problems could obscure a genuine effect or give the superficial impression that a nonexistent effect exists.