Initial study syndrome

{{ClinPsy]]

Initial study syndrome is an idea presented here (but possibly addressed elsewhere) that refers to an observable pattern in clinical research findings where initial studies report significantly elevated effects (in the range of 60-85% cure rates) which are not subsequently confimed. Generally over time the effectiveness of the procedures settles around the 30% mark.

If this pattern is confirmed it suggests that one or more biases are operating, despite the objective methodology of the scientific enterprise.