Reliability and validity are essential for measuring social science constructs. A reliable but invalid scale may measure the wrong construct. A valid but unreliable scale may measure the wrong construct inconsistently
Research methods systematically observe, describe, predict and explain behavior. Hypotheses predict results and must be verified or disproved. Four types of hypotheses: null, alternative, one-tailed and two-tailed
Reliability measures consistency of a measure, while validity indicates accuracy. A measurement can be reliable without being valid, but validity usually indicates reliability. Reliability is easier to assess than validity but more important
Scale developed to assess adult spiritual well-being in Turkey. Initial 49-item scale reduced through expert feedback. Final scale contains 29 items across three dimensions
Internal validity measures study structure and accuracy of results. It ensures cause-and-effect relationships are trustworthy. Three criteria needed: cause-effect relationship, time precedence, and no alternative explanations. Factors improving internal validity include blinding, random assignment, and strict protocols. Threats include attrition, confounding, and experimenter bias
Qualitative research differs from quantitative research in focusing on words and meaning. Qualitative research is constructed, interpertivist, and inductivist. Researcher is closer to social reality and seeks meaning from participants