1. Research studies vary in terms of validity. Some studies have strong
internal and external validity and their results and conclusions are
highly respected. Other studies have only moderate validity, and some
have little or no validity. Never accept a research result or conclusion as
true simply because it is said to have been “scientifically demonstrated.”
2. Being aware of threats to validity can help you critically evaluate a
research study. As you read research reports, mentally scan the list of
threats and ask yourself whether each one applies. A major learning
objective of this book is to make you an informed consumer of research,
capable of making your own decisions about its validity and quality.