Professor Cloud conducts an experiment to test a well-established theory and finds non-significant results. Low theoretical validity is a threat to the validity of his findings if
A) he conducted an exact replication of a previous study that tested the theory.
B) the study excludes one of the experimental conditions proposed to be important by the theory.
C) he failed to include a pretest.
D) any of the above occurred.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Low theoretical validity is a threat when the study design does not fully incorporate or test all aspects of the theory being examined. In this case, excluding an experimental condition that the theory considers important (choice B) would compromise the ability to accurately test or reflect the theory, thus threatening the theoretical validity of the findings. Choices A and C do not inherently threaten theoretical validity in the context provided.

Professor Cloud Conducts an Experiment to Test a Well-Established Theory