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Ecological validity is concerned with whether a test resembles what?

  1. Established theoretical models

  2. Current psychological practices

  3. Real-life situations

  4. Other concurrent test outcomes

The correct answer is: Real-life situations

Ecological validity pertains to the extent to which the findings of a study can be generalized to real-life settings. It evaluates whether the research conditions and tasks mirror actual experiences and contexts that individuals encounter outside of a controlled environment. In this case, when a test is said to have high ecological validity, it indicates that the results can be applied to everyday life situations, making them more relevant and meaningful. The concept underscores the importance of realism in psychological research, implying that the closer a test is to real-world scenarios, the more applicable and useful it will be in understanding actual human behavior. This perspective is crucial in ensuring that psychological insights gained from tests can influence real-world practices effectively.