The research behind the app

Every lesson in Conversetta rests on research, described in our own words. This is the one place where we name the studies.

How we use research

Strong evidence

Many studies agree.

Promising evidence

Good studies, but fewer of them.

Expert practice

Widely used by coaches and practitioners, not directly tested.

Nothing that failed replication is taught.

By direction

Expert practice

Some lessons also use ideas that practitioners rely on but research hasn't tested directly:

• Preparing a few topics before a social event helps, and isn't inauthentic.
• Keep a hello easy to turn down: brief where someone can't easily walk away, and a warm exit when the replies stay short.
• Listening that others notice is responsive and said out loud, not silent eye contact.

What research can't tell you

1. Most studies come from North America and Europe, so results may differ in other cultures.
2. The effects are real but modest; these are improvements, not transformations.
3. Much relationship research shows links, not proven causes.
4. Research can describe relationships, but it can't predict yours.
5. Most findings rely on people describing themselves.
6. This is practice, not therapy. Some things need a professional — resources are always in the app.
7. Structured programme studies show bigger effects than everyday-life studies; we don't mix the two.
8. When behaviour is measured objectively, effects often look smaller.
9. Positive results get published more often than null results.
10. An app only helps if it's used: regular practice matters more than any single tip.

Our advisors

Our scientific and clinical advisors will be named here once their contracts are in place.