Questions Video Segments 19

What is the difference between convergent and discriminant validity?

Convergent and discriminant validation is applicable when you have multiple variables, when
you measure multiple characteristics or concepts. If you want to prove your concepts are valid
you will have to show that concepts which are the same or are related, correlated highly (it is
convergence). On the other hand, if you make a case to use two different concepts and you
really need those, you will have to show that these two concepts are quite different. Therefore
they have discriminant validity.

How are both complementary?

Convergent and discriminant validation is applicable in a same measure (generally when you
have multiple variables). They are complementary because one concept, for example verbal
intelligence may be low related with a test with numbers, but at the same time the test with
numbers is highly related with mathematical intelligence. In this way they are complementary.