What does it mean when an outcome measure has been shown to be valid?

When an outcome measure is described as valid, it indicates that it accurately measures what it is intended to measure. This means that the assessment effectively captures the underlying construct or concept that is being investigated, and it meets the criteria established by the scientific method. Validity is a cornerstone in research and practice because it ensures that conclusions drawn from the measure are based on reliable and meaningful data.

Validity is further categorized into different types, including content validity, criterion-related validity, and construct validity. Each of these categories provides different insights into how well the measure aligns with the intended purpose or theory behind it.

The other options do not define validity correctly. While replicability is important in research, it refers to reliability rather than validity. Subjective feedback from clients can be valuable, but it does not inherently assure the measure's accuracy. Lastly, reflecting only short-term results does not pertain to the overall effectiveness or truthfulness of the outcome measure. Validity extends beyond just short-term results and pertains to the consistency and accuracy of the instrument used for assessment.