A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

What is meant by construct validity in testing?

1. Testing the appearance of the test

2. Predicting future outcomes with accuracy

3. Representing and capturing an abstract theoretical concept

4. Comparing a new test to an established standard

The correct answer is: Representing and capturing an abstract theoretical concept

Construct validity refers to the extent to which a test accurately represents and captures an abstract theoretical concept. It is important because it validates whether the test measures what it claims to measure, which is crucial when assessing psychological constructs that cannot be directly observed, such as intelligence, depression, or anxiety. For instance, if a test is designed to measure anxiety, construct validity would ensure that the items in the test truly reflect the characteristics and behaviors associated with anxiety rather than unrelated factors. Assessing construct validity often involves examining relationships between the test and other measures that are theoretically related to the construct, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of what the test is intending to assess. Other options may address elements of test evaluation but do not capture the essence of construct validity. One option focuses on the test's appearance, which pertains more to face validity rather than construct validity. Another centers on predicting future outcomes, which relates to predictive validity. The last option involves criterion validity through comparison with established standards, which is a different aspect of test validation. Thus, the core of construct validity lies in accurately representing abstract concepts, making the correct answer an essential aspect of psychological measurement.