This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: "Probst, T. and Hagger, M. 2015. Advancing the rigour and integrity of our science: The registered reports initiative. Stress and Health. 31 (3): pp. 177-179.", which has been published in final form at http://doi.org/10.1002/smi.2645. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Self-Archiving at http://olabout.wiley.com/WileyCDA/Section/id-820227.html#terms