Research methods 15 | Types of validity across all methods of investigation. Flashcards
Define validity in psychological research.
The extent to which a study or test measures what it claims to measure, ensuring accuracy and truthfulness of results.
Distinguish between internal and external validity.
Internal validity examines if the IV caused changes in the DV, while external validity assesses if results can generalize to other settings/groups.
Explain face validity.
Face validity assesses whether a test appears to measure its intended construct
How is concurrent validity measured?
By correlating scores from a new test with an established test of the same construct (≥0.8 correlation indicates good validity).
Identify two threats to internal validity.
1) Demand characteristics 2) Investigator effects
Why might Milgram’s study lack ecological validity?
The artificial lab setting may not reflect real-world obedience to authority figures.
Describe how to improve population validity.
Use diverse samples representing different genders, cultures, and ages to enhance generalizability.
What is temporal validity? Give an example.
Whether findings remain applicable over time (e.g., 1950s gender studies may not reflect modern attitudes).
How does predictive validity differ from concurrent validity?
Predictive validity forecasts future behavior (e.g., GCSEs predicting A-levels), while concurrent validity compares to an existing measure.
Suggest two ways to increase ecological validity.
1) Conduct field experiments 2) Use tasks with high mundane realism
Explain why standardized procedures improve internal validity.
They control extraneous variables, ensuring changes in the DV are solely due to the IV.
Evaluate the importance of validity in psychological research.
Critical for ensuring results are meaningful and applicable, though often requires trade-offs (e.g., internal vs ecological validity).
