Using Generalizability Theory to Disattenuate Correlation Coefficients for Multiple Sources of Measurement Error

Over the years, research in the social sciences has been dominated by reporting of reliability coefficients that fail to account for key sources of measurement error. Use of these coefficients, in turn, to correct for measurement error can hinder scientific progress by misrepresenting true relationships among the underlying constructs being investigated. In the research reported here, we addressed these issues using generalizability theory (G-theory) in both traditional and new ways to account for the three key sources of measurement error (random-response, specific-factor, and transient) that affect scores from objectively scored measures. Results from 20 widely used measures of personality, self-concept, and socially desirable responding showed that conventional indices consistently misrepresented reliability and relationships among psychological constructs by failing to account for key sources of measurement error and correlated transient errors within occasions. The results further revealed that G-theory served as an effective framework for remedying these problems. We discuss possible extensions in future research and provide code from the computer package R in an online supplement to enable readers to apply the procedures we demonstrate to their own research.     

The improved name game: Better use of expanding retrieval practice

Morris and Fritz (2000) demonstrated the effectiveness of the name game as a retrieval-practice based technique for learning the names of group members. We hypothesised that a reversed version of the name game would be even more effective. Performance was contrasted with a no-retrieval condition that mimicked the name game in every way except for the retrieval of the names, allowing an estimate of the specific contribution of retrieval practice. The benefit of a few refresher rounds of the game after 2 weeks was also examined. The reversed name game was superior to the original name game and the refresher rounds benefited all groups. The very considerable superiority of the name game over the no-retrieval condition demonstrated the magnitude of the benefit of expanding retrieval practice.     

Book reviews

A glance toward a neglected field: Creativity and affect

Russ, Sandra W. (1993). Affect and Creativity: The Role of Affect and Play in the Creative Process. Hillsdale, NJ: Erlbaum (136 pp.). ISBN 0–8058–0986–4.

More ways than one: Fostering creativity

Cropley, Arthur J. (1992). More Ways Than One: Fostering Creativity. Norwood, NJ: Ablex (VIII + 134 pp.). ISBN 0–89391–789–3.

Whitehead revisited: A rediscovered founding father of Creativity Studies

Rapp, F. &; Wiehl, R. (1990). Whitehead's Metaphysics of Creativity. Albany, NY: SUNY Press (X + 223 pp.). ISBN 0–79140202–9.     

Memory Functioning in Children with Reading Disabilities and/or Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Clinical Investigation of their Working Memory and Long-Term Memory Functioning

We examined memory functioning in children with reading disabilities (RD), Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and RD/ADHD using a clinic sample with a clinical instrument: the Children's Memory Scale, enhancing its generalizability. Participants included 23 children with RD, 30 with ADHD, 30 with RD/ADHD, and 30 controls. Children with RD presented with reduced verbal short-term memory (STM) but intact visual STM, central executive (CE), and long-term memory (LTM) functioning. Their deficit in STM appeared specific to tasks requiring phonetic coding of material. Children with ADHD displayed intact CE and LTM functioning but reduced visual-spatial STM, especially when off stimulant medication. Children with RD/ADHD had deficits consistent with both disorders.     

Therapist Utilization of Online Social Support for Parents of Premature Infants

Using a qualitative framework to capture the voices and stories of parents of premature infants, this study explored the role of online social support through the use of the March of Dimes, Share Your Story site. Given the growing trend of computer mediated communication usage in the lives of individuals and family members experiencing medical challenges, this study adds to the broad array of research on online social support, while specifically contributing to the limited literature on the parental experience of premature birth and online social support. The research also connects marriage and family therapists and other family practitioners to the role of online social support opportunities for families.     

Criterion Validity of Complex Traits With Counterproductive Work Behaviors: Circumplex Versus Facet Traits

This study examined the criterion validity of factorially complex traits, specifically circumplex traits, in comparison to personality facets in explaining variance in interpersonally directed and organization-directed counterproductive work behavior (CWB-I and CWB-O). We examined whether circumplex traits’ explanation of unique variance was due to being narrower traits or a blend of multiple personality factors. We compared the Abridged Big Five Circumplex circumplexes and the Revised NEO Personality Inventory facets associated with Conscientiousness, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism. Two hundred ninety-six student workers completed the study. Regression analysis supported our prediction that circumplex traits explain unique variance in CWB-Is and CWB-Os beyond that of personality facets. In addition, those personality facets with stronger relationships to the criteria had larger cross-loadings between personality domains.