Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Practice Exam

What is predictive validity?

1. The accuracy of a test in measuring a specific trait

2. Degree to which test predictions are confirmed by later behavior

3. Consistency of test scores across multiple administrations

4. Relationship between two different measures of the same trait

The correct answer is: Degree to which test predictions are confirmed by later behavior

Predictive validity refers to the extent to which a test accurately forecasts or predicts an individual’s future performance or behavior based on their scores. This concept is essential in various contexts, especially within the realm of assessments in hiring practices, academic settings, and psychological testing. By confirming that the test scores correlatively predict future outcomes, organizations can validate their selection processes and ensure that their assessments align with desired performance standards. In this context, predictive validity is crucial because it demonstrates the test's effectiveness in forecasting future behaviors and outcomes, which can ultimately affect decision-making processes in HR and other fields. The other options represent different aspects related to testing but do not align with the specific definition of predictive validity. For instance, measuring the accuracy of a test pertains more to its validity in terms of content or construct, while consistency across multiple administrations relates to reliability, not predictive validity. The relationship between two measures of the same trait instead discusses concurrent validity, which evaluates the correlation between two assessments at the same time, rather than predicting future performance.