Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
In research contexts like psychology, measure refers to the process of quantifying or assessing a particular variable or construct using standardized tools or instruments. Measures help provide objective data that can be analyzed statistically.
Validity refers to the extent to which a measure accurately measures what it intends to measure. Researchers need to ensure that their measures are valid to draw reliable conclusions from their data.
Reliability refers to the consistency or stability of a measure over time or across different conditions. A reliable measure produces consistent results, allowing researchers to have confidence in their findings.
Self-report Measures: These are assessment tools that rely on individuals reporting their own thoughts, feelings, behaviors, etc. Examples include questionnaires and surveys where participants provide subjective information about themselves.