Abstract
Possibilities and potential for construct validity theory (CVT) and related concepts and methods are explored in light of relevant philosophical issues and empirical evidence bearing on validation practices of researchers. The central theses of CVT presented earlier are revisited and reframed in light of contemporary validation theory and standards of practice. Guidelines and recommendations are given for both the uses of CVT-related concepts and specific validation practices and development of theory more generally. The overall aim is to position CVT and related practices within a critical–theoretical perspective in the hopes of promoting sounder practices and increased consideration of a plurality of methods, including conceptual and historical analysis of psychological concepts.
Given all the theoretical and practical considerations [concerning construct validity]…, is it possible to create a fully valid test or performance assessment? Will we ever approach the degree of validation obtained in the natural sciences? Not until we have better units. Not until we have better constructs. Not until we have a better idea of what we are doing, and where the behavior itself fits in.
—Fiske (2002, p. 177)
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Slaney, K. (2017). Revisiting Possibilities for Construct Validity Theory. In: Validating Psychological Constructs. Palgrave Studies in the Theory and History of Psychology. Palgrave Macmillan, London. https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-137-38523-9_10
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-137-38523-9_10
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