Construct validity is demonstrated when...

• A. The test yields high reliability
• B. The test correlates with unrelated constructs
• C. The test demonstrates a relationship with related constructs, showing it measures the intended concept
• D. The test has strong face validity

Answer: (C)

Construct validity asks whether a test truly measures the theoretical concept it’s intended to measure. It is demonstrated when the test shows a meaningful relationship with related constructs, indicating it taps into the same underlying concept—this is convergent validity, a key part of construct validity. In practical terms, if your test scores align with other measures that assess the same trait, you have good evidence it’s measuring the intended construct. On the other hand, reliability is about consistency of scores, not whether the test actually measures the right thing. If the test correlates with unrelated constructs, that suggests poor discriminant validity and weak overall construct validity. Face validity—that the test looks like it measures what it should—is about appearance and does not provide solid evidence of the actual construct being measured. So, demonstrating a relationship with related constructs shows the test is capturing the intended concept, which is what construct validity is all about.