The Central Role of General Ability in Prediction

1 July 1985

journal article
Published by Taylor & Francis in Multivariate Behavioral Research

Vol. 20 (3) , 241-254
https://doi.org/10.1207/s15327906mbr2003_1

Abstract

Three data sets are analyzed that permit double cross-validation of a test battery against criterion variables in a number of educational programs or jobs. The validity of the first general factor score is compared with that obtained from the set of cross-validated regression weights, and is found to account, respectively, for approximately 85, 90 and 120 percent as much criterion variance as the cross-validated regression weights. Small further contributions appear to be made by a mechanical/technical and by a psychomotor factor. However, for a wide range of criterion variables the major role in validity appears to be played by a common general factor.

Keywords

This publication has 1 reference indexed in Scilit:

MODERATOR RESEARCH AND THE LAW OF SMALL NUMBERS¹
Personnel Psychology, 1978