Item response tree (IRTree) models are a flexible framework to control self-reported trait measurements for response styles. To this end, IRTree models decompose the responses to rating items into sub-decisions, which are assumed to be made on the basis of either the trait being measured or a response style, whereby the effects of such person…

This study examined the predictors and psychometric outcomes of survey satisficing, wherein respondents provide quick, "good enough" answers (satisficing) rather than carefully considered answers (optimizing). We administered surveys to university students and respondents--half of whom held college degrees--from a for-pay survey website,…

The overclaiming technique is a novel assessment procedure that uses signal detection analysis to generate indices of knowledge accuracy (OC-accuracy) and self-enhancement (OC-bias). The technique has previously shown robustness over varied knowledge domains as well as low reactivity across administration contexts. Here we compared the OC-accuracy…

A sample of preschool children was used to assess the construct validity of each of the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities (MSCA). Clinical interpretation of the General Cognitive Index (GCI) may be warranted, but diagnostic use of the Memory or Motor Scales with preschool children should be avoided. (Author/GK)

Usefulness of the Comrey Validity Check scale score as an index of random or indiscriminate responding to the Comrey Personality Scales was evaluated on a large sample of Navy paramedical personnel. Tables are presented and implications are discussed. (Author/JKS)

The incremental effectiveness of the American College Testing Program Examination (ACT) is studied along with the effectiveness of the ACT alone and of high school grade-point average alone in predicting differential success in a three year nurses' training program for 199 students over a 10-year period. (Author/DEP)

This paper presents two major criticisms of the construct validity investigation of the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities conducted by Watkins and Wiebe (1980). The criticisms pertain to the nature of the data presented and the accuracy and appropriateness of the statistical procedures employed. (BS)

The concept of psychosocial competence, or psychological effectiveness is investigated via three studies on college and high school students. The Behavioral Attributes of Psychosocial Competence measure used in these studies were found to differentiate between students rated competent or not competent by external sources. (JKS)

This study investigated the factor structure of the 10 subtests of the Career Maturity Inventory (CMI). Although two principal factors emerged, the CMI Competence and Attitude subtests did not load distinctly on the two separate factors. Results also tended to indicate that the discriminant validity of the CMI may be minimal. (PN)

The validity of spelling tests in several formats was investigated against the criterion of an estimate of spelling accuracy in ranked writing samples. The correlation between writing samples and spelling production was greater than with recognition of correct spelling. Variations in reliability and rankings were not responsible for the…

Study presents findings to the effect that relatively inexpensive standardized tests which measure achievement in reading and mathematics below the college level may be used to predict scores on the SAT and CLEP tests. (Authors)

This study compared the validity of chronological age, a standardized algebra prognosis test, standardized verbal and quantitative scales derived from an achievement test battery, and an objective measure of formal or concrete stages of Piagetian cognitive development for predicting final examination scores and course grades in high school…

Social Studies was the best predictor in the two-year colleges whereas Literature was the most predictive of success in the four-year colleges. (Author)