Criterion Validity

Criterion validity assesses the extent to which a scale correlates with or predicts an external criterion. There are two primary techniques for establishing criterion validity:

Concurrent Validation: In concurrent validation, the scale in question is administered simultaneously with a criterion measure that represents the same construct. Researchers then assess the correlation between the two sets of scores (Anastasi & Urbina, 1997). For instance, when validating a new scale for measuring depression, it might be administered alongside a well-established depression inventory. The study can then examine the correlation between the two sets of scores to assess the concurrent validity of the new scale (Beck et al., 1996).

Predictive Validation: Predictive validation, on the other hand, aims to determine whether the scores from the scale can predict future criteria. In the context of employment settings, this often involves assessing the ability of a job applicant's test scores to predict their future job performance. For example, a study may investigate whether scores on a pre-employment aptitude test can predict the subsequent job performance of candidates (Murphy & Davidshofer, 2005).