Describe How an Empirical Method of Test Construction Differs from the Rational/theoretical

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The MMPI-2,like its predecessor,consists of ten basic scales,most of which assess mental disorders,such as paranoia,depression,and schizophrenia (see Chapter 15).Hathaway and McKinley developed these scales by means of an empirical (or data-based)method of test construction.Using this approach,researchers begin with two or more criterion groups,such as people with and without a specific psychological disorder,and examine which items best distinguish them.For example,the items on the MMPI depression scale are those that best differentiate patients with clinical depression from nondepressed people.
Psychologists have also developed many structured personality measures using a rational/theoretical method of test construction.In contrast to an empirical approach,this approach requires test developers to begin with a clear-cut conceptualisation of a trait and then write items to assess that conceptualisation.Auke Tellegen (1982)adopted a rational/theoretical approach in constructing the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire (MPQ)and later used factor analysis to select the best items for this test.The MPQ assesses three major self-reported personality traits related to (1)positive emotions (such as happiness and social intimacy), (2)negative emotions (such as anxiety and anger),and (3)impulse control (Tellegen et al. ,1988).Studies show that the MPQ validly assesses these personality traits;scores on its scales correlate highly with ratings of the same traits by peers.

Describe How an Empirical Method of Test Construction Differs from the Rational/theoretical

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