Construct validity is demonstrated by showing that a test measures the theoretical construct; which method is commonly used to establish it?

• A. Correlation with GPA
• B. Test length optimization
• C. Factor analysis
• D. Face validity

Answer: (C)

Construct validity hinges on whether the test items actually reflect the intended theoretical construct, and factor analysis is commonly used to establish this. By examining how items correlate with one another and load onto underlying factors, factor analysis shows whether the test taps the expected dimensions of the construct. If the items cluster together on a meaningful factor (or factors that align with theory), that provides evidence that the measure is capturing the intended construct. Researchers may use exploratory factor analysis to discover the structure and confirmatory factor analysis to test the hypothesized structure. Correlation with GPA reflects criterion validity rather than how the test’s items relate to the theoretical construct. Optimizing test length concerns practicality and reliability more than construct structure, and face validity is a superficial check that does not demonstrate actual measurement of the construct.