Which of the following statements is true about a reliable test in the context of the scientific method in psychology?

• A. A reliable test is only useful for qualitative research.
• B. A reliable test guarantees that the results are valid.
• C. A reliable test always measures what it is intended to measure.
• D. A reliable test produces consistent results when repeated under the same conditions.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of reliability in psychological testing: Reliability refers to the consistency of a test's results when it is repeated under the same conditions.
2. Recognize that reliability does not guarantee validity. Validity is about whether the test measures what it is supposed to measure, while reliability is about consistency of results.
3. Note that reliability applies to both qualitative and quantitative research, so it is not limited to only qualitative research.
4. Identify that a reliable test produces consistent results across multiple administrations, which means if the test is repeated, the results should be similar.
5. Conclude that the true statement about a reliable test is that it produces consistent results when repeated under the same conditions.