Evaluation of Selected Interview Data in Improving the Predictive Validity of a Verbal Ability Test with Psychiatric Aide Trainees

Abstract

From 13 objective interview items, five with adequate response variability were studied to determine if they would improve the validity of a verbal ability selection test in predicting the work performance of 181 psychiatric aide trainees. Multiple regression analysis revealed that a combination of three of the interview variables (prior work experience, education, and age) improved the selection test validity of .27 (p < .01) to .34 (p < .01), but none of the variables individually significantly increased the validity of the test. While limited support was found for the use of such biographical interview data to enhance test validity, the number of variables studied were relatively few. None of the interview variables correlated as high with the criterion as the verbal test, which is consistent with prior reviews. No significant race differences on the interview variables or performance criterion were found and comparison of regression line slopes and intercepts revealed no evidence of selection test bias related to race.

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