Validity

This article argues that many problems in psychological and behavioral research stem not only from statistical practices but also from how researchers define and measure constructs. The authors introduce the concept of questionable measurement practices (QMPs)—research decisions about measurement that raise doubts about the validity of a study’s conclusions. When such decisions are hidden or poorly documented, it becomes difficult for readers or other researchers to evaluate threats to construct validity, internal validity, statistical validity, and external validity, which ultimately undermines the credibility and replicability of research findings.