Counselor Education Comprehensive Exam (CECE) Practice Exam

Which term refers to the consistency of a measurement scale over time?

1. Validity

2. Reliability

3. Generalizability

4. Objectivity

The correct answer is: Reliability

The concept being referred to is reliability, which is crucial in measurement and assessment within the counseling field. Reliability pertains to the degree to which an assessment tool produces stable and consistent results over repeated applications. When a measurement scale is reliable, it means that if the same instrument is administered to the same individuals under similar circumstances at different points in time, it will yield similar results. For example, if a standardized test used to assess counseling skills shows consistent scores across multiple administrations, it demonstrates reliability. This consistency is essential for building trust in the assessment process and ensuring that the outcomes are accurate reflections of what they intend to measure. In contrast, validity focuses on whether a test measures what it is supposed to measure. Generalizability refers to the extent to which findings from a study can be applied to settings beyond the specific context of the study. Objectivity relates to the impartiality and neutrality of the assessment, ensuring results are not influenced by the tester's biases. Understanding these distinctions helps in comprehending how reliability specifically relates to the consistency of measurement over time.