Turbulent Times, Targeted Insights: I-O Psychology’s Response to Policy Shifts

Recent proposed and enacted policy changes across levels of the U.S. government stand to significantly affect industrial-organizational (I-O) psychology across science, practice, and training spheres. This special issue documents the nature of many work-relevant policy shifts, their implications for the field of I-O, and the ways I-O psychologists can continue to support rigorous research, education, and evidence-based practice in this new legal and political landscape. Topics covered include policy change related to where work takes place (e.g., return-to-office mandates), how human resource functions are managed and implemented (e.g., selection, benefits), whose work experiences are affected (e.g., transgender employees, minors), and impacts on higher education and academia (e.g., academic freedom, funding disruptions). This editorial summarizes these perspectives, presents additional considerations regarding the dynamic and ongoing nature of discussed policy shifts, and concludes with recommendations for I-O psychologists navigating this turbulent time.