Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) Practice Test

When constructing a structured personality test using empirical criterion keying, items included are those that?

1. Have high correlations with some items but low correlations with others

2. Have been identified by experts as measuring specific traits

3. Accurately distinguish between those who do and do not possess the traits

4. Are chosen based on a predetermined set of rules

The correct answer is: Accurately distinguish between those who do and do not possess the traits

The correct answer is focused on the fundamental principle of empirical criterion keying, which is a method used in constructing personality tests. This method involves selecting items based on their ability to differentiate between groups, specifically those who exhibit the traits being measured and those who do not. Essentially, the items chosen via this approach will show a strong correlation with the criterion of interest—helping to effectively classify individuals based on their personality characteristics. By selecting items that accurately distinguish between these groups, the test gains validity and reliability in measuring the intended traits. This criterion-oriented approach is central to ensuring that the items are not just theoretically relevant but are also practically effective in assessing personality. In contrast, other options describe different approaches to test development or characteristics that do not align with the empirical criterion keying method. For example, expert judgment in trait identification and predetermined rules may have their place in other forms of test construction, but they do not specifically relate to the empirical criterion keying process, which emphasizes statistical differentiation among groups rather than subjective or rule-based selection.