Is theory the best practise: A review of research in work psychology in Serbia (1995-2019)

Abstract

The paper deals with the relationship between academic, applied and practical knowledge in the field of applied psychology, which has the potential to contribute to economic and social development. The aim of the analysis is to make an initial insight into the dominant topics and social relevance of research activities in the field of work psychology in Serbia in the period of significant social changes (1995-2019). The material for the analysis consisted of abstracts of papers in the field of work psychology, which were presented at two leading national conferences - Empirical Research in Psychology and the Meeting of Psychologists of Serbia (N = 657). The thematic analytical procedure was used for the construction of the code system used for defining the criteria for collecting relevant data. Exploratory sequential design and comparative longitudinal analysis were used for data processing. The general conclusion based on qualitative data analysis suggests the existence of social relevance of research activities in the field of work psychology in this period. The results of the analysis were also considered from the perspective of some recent models of strategic planning and social development. The obtained results indicate the emergence of new topics and areas, as well as the existence of a link between significant social changes and research activities in the field of work psychology in this period. Some elements of the new paradigm of the positive human resource development practice are highlighted. The paper concludes with discussing the broader theoretical-methodological and practical implications of the obtained findings for work psychology.