Psychometrics

The most common way to measure behavioral science is by asking questions

Measurement is rooted in theory- eg, stopping smoking from attitude + social norm resulting in the intention to stop

• PLUS control (if you think you acc can, even if you want to)

Bogardus social distance scale (using Guttman scaling where each question is a more specific- pushing vtersion of the previous. Oh you’re ok w that? What if its even worse. Or even worse. - to see when you’ll stop saying yes). Can’t say “not ok” at first question and yes to sth after.

Week 1

1a

Apgar score: first test for babies (0-10 need for medical attention)

Low = later disability risks

A test is a standardized procedure for sampling behavior and describing it with categories or scores

Standardized procedure

Behavior sample

Scores or categories

Norms or standards

Prediction of non-test behavior

Criterion-referenced tests: measure what a person can do rather than comparing results to the performance levels of others.

True score is always the observed one + a measurement error (X = T + e)

Standardization sample = norm scores = good for comparing later ones

Assessments are more comprehensive than tests, referring to the entire process of compiling info about ppl to predict behavior

Compare subjective data

Group tests (paper, pencil, everyone at once) vs individual tests (1-1)

image of the 8 main test types

Purpose of testing = classification

Placement (into a group)

Screening (identify certain ppl from group)

Certification (pass/fail- exams)

Diagnosis

WAIS-IV: The materials for the subtest include nine blocks (cubes) colored red on two sides, white on two sides, and red/white on two sides. The examinee’s task is to use the blocks to construct patterns depicted on cards. For the initial designs, four blocks are needed, while for more difficult designs, all nine blocks are provided.