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The argument-based approach to validity: theory, assumptions, evidence, and consequences
Melanie Hawkins1, Richard Sawatzky2,3,4,5, Kevin Weinfurt6
1Global Health and Equity Development Hub, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia. m.hawkins@latrobe.edu.au.
Summary
Validity in measurement is about score interpretation and use within a specific context, not the measure itself. This argument-based approach ensures equitable health measurement consequences.
Area of Science:
- Measurement science
- Health outcomes research
- Psychometrics
Background:
- Validity is often misunderstood as a property of a measure, rather than score interpretation.
- Score interpretation and use vary across contexts, impacting measurement equity.
- Understanding context is crucial for valid health measurement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the argument-based approach to measurement validity.
- To discuss assumptions and evidence for equitable measurement consequences.
Main Methods:
- Define score interpretation and use within a context.
- Identify assumptions guiding validation.
- Examine and evaluate evidence against assumptions and the concept of interest.
Main Results:
- Key assumptions are detailed regarding evidence needs and interpretation.
- The importance of assumptions for equitable measurement consequences is highlighted.
- The argument-based approach emphasizes evidence for score interpretation.
Conclusions:
- Measurement validity focuses on score interpretation and use within a context.
- A validity argument requires evidence on score interpretation plausibility.
- Consideration of measurement consequences is vital for health equity.
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