Criterion Validity

an index of how well a test correlates with an established standard of comparison (i.e., a criterion). Criterion validity is divided into three types: predictive validity, concurrent validity, and retrospective validity. For example, if a measure of criminal behavior is valid, then it should be possible to use it to predict whether an individual (a) will be arrested in the future for a criminal violation, (b) is currently breaking the law, and (c) has a previous criminal record.

compares responses to future performance or to those obtained from other, more well-established surveys. Criterion validity is made up two subcategories: predictive and concurrent. Predictive validity refers to the extent to which a survey measure forecasts future performance. A graduate school entry examination that predicts who will do well in graduate school has predictive validity. Concurrent validity is demonstrated when two assessments agree or a new measure is compared favorably with one that is already considered valid.