In psychological research methods, what is the difference between reliability and validity?

The reliability of a research method refers to the consistency of a measure being used, and the ability to replicate that method e.g. someone who weighed them self throughout the day, would expect to see a similar reading each time. The two types of reliability are internal and external. And the validity of a research method refers to whether or not it measures what it claims to measure e.g. a test of intelligence should measure intelligence, and there is also internal and external validity.

EW
Answered by Eleanor W. Psychology tutor

2589 Views

See similar Psychology A Level tutors

Related Psychology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain one advantage and one disadvantage of using open questions in an interview.


Outline the multi-store memory model


How can normative social influence be used as an explanation of conformity?


What is the study of Psychology, and is it comparable to a hard science?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning