retrospective validity

the extent to which an instrument that purports to measure a particular behavior can be shown to correlate with past occurrences that demonstrate this behavior. For example, a researcher evaluating a new measure of accident proneness might administer it to a sample of respondents and then check their archived medical records to determine if higher test scores on the measure correlate with the number of actual treated injuries in the past. It is one of several types of criterion validity. Also called postdictive validity. See also concurrent validity; predictive validity.

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Psychology term of the day

November 22nd 2024

nondirective approach

an approach to psychotherapy and counseling in which the therapist or counselor establishes an encouraging atmosphere and clarifies the client’s ideas rather than directing the process. The client leads the way by expressing his or her own feelings, defining his or her own problems, and interpreting his or her own behavior. This approach is a cornerstone of client-centered therapy. [originally advocated by Carl Rogers]