Presents a simple method for generating simulated plasmodes and artificial test clusters with user-defined shape, size, and orientation. For "J" clusters, indicator validity is defined as the squared correlation ratio between the cluster indicator and J-1 dummy variables. Illustrates the method through simulation. (SLD)

The best strategy for personality scale construction may be a utilitarian concept rather than a psychometric one. Some specific suggestions are given. (Author/JKS)

The Illinois Classroom Assessment Profile is a teacher rating scale that is sensitive to behavior disorders exhibited by hyperactive children. The behavioral dimensions represent sustained attention, impulsivity, conduct, fine motor coordination, and evaluative anxiety. The development of the scale and investigations of its factor structure are…

Two studies with 139 male and 149 female undergraduate students and 79 female college students, respectively, assessed the development and validation of the Need for Cognition (NFC) Scale, which has 45 true/false items. Three subscales (Cognitive Persistence, Cognitive Confidence, and Cognitive Complexity) were identified. Some results concerning…

Twelve structural models of similarity were fitted to data from conventional and computer adaptive test (CAT) batteries measuring the same aptitude in a double cross-validation design. Three of the 12 models, including a multiplicative structure model, performed well, providing support for using CATs as replacements for conventional tests. (NSF)

Common items, items which appear on several scales on psychological tests, are investigated in this study. It is concluded that the common item problem is not a serious one in personality measurement. (Author/JKS)

A procedure is suggested for test development and construct validation based on a theory about the criterion performance. The method is illustrated by describing a study concerned with the selection of medical school students, where the criterion is a measure of clinical problem-solving ability. (Author/LMO)

Validity evidence for a new instrument, the Situation-Response Measure of Achievement Motivation for analyzing cross-situational consistency of achievement-related behavior, is presented in a study of 246 college students. Exploratory factor analysis indicates the presence of two factors, striving and apprehensiveness. (SLD)