Reliability and validity

Question 1

How can researchers counteract bias?

Answer 1

1. highlight anonymity of assessment.
2. minimize fatigue, stress and distractions.
3. imply that dishonesty can be detected.
4. improve test content.
5. use validity scales.

Question 2

Explain signal detection theory.

Answer 2

Signal detection theory is a technique that can be used to evaluate the sensitivity of binary decisions.

• it can lead to a hit, miss, false rejection or false positive.
• can help determine cutoffs.
• help determine different base rates and how they affect the outcome.

Question 3

Explain neurolaw.

Answer 3

People have a biocognitive fingerprint. Neurolaw is focused on how this should be incorporated into legal systems.

• acquired brain injuries.
• neurological disorders.
• genetic abnormalities.

Question 4

What are the pitfalls of neuroscience?

Answer 4

1. use of group-level knowledge to make inferences about individuals.
2. psycho-legal fallacy.
3. psychiatric disorders have a dimensional structure.