What type of validity refers to the subjective perception of a test's relevance to its intended concept?

Face validity involves the subjective judgment regarding how well a test appears to measure what it is intended to measure. This type of validity is typically assessed by individuals who are not necessarily experts in the field, making it rooted in personal judgment rather than empirical measurement. For example, if a test is designed to assess patient safety knowledge, those taking or reviewing the test may perceive it as relevant based on whether the items seem representative of key safety concepts; this perception would contribute to the test’s face validity.

While other types of validity, such as criterion, content, and construct validity, involve more rigorous methods of validation typically backed by statistical evidence or theory, face validity remains focused on the superficial aspects of test relevance as seen through the eyes of the test-takers or reviewers. This quality is particularly important in the early stages of test development when gathering feedback from potential users or stakeholders can help shape and refine the assessment tool.