Suppose that a researcher used an empirical test construction strategy to develop a scale measuring the trait of Nonconformity. The researcher had administered some personality inventory items to a small group of homeowners in a city, and then chose the items that were most strongly related to ratings (made by her assistants) of how unusual or unconventional was the appearance of each homeowner’s house and yard. Which of the following might be a problem associated with the use of this method of test construction as described above?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Using a small group of homeowners in a specific city to develop a scale for Nonconformity may result in items that are specific to that group and not generalizable to other groups. Additionally, using only one indicator of Nonconformity (appearance of their house and yard) may not adequately capture the construct of Nonconformity, leading to difficulties in generalizing the findings of the scale. Therefore, both A and B could be problems associated with this method of test construction.

Suppose That a Researcher Used an Empirical Test Construction Strategy