Internal Validity
A study’s results are due to the independent variable rather than to confounds
Internal validity refers to the degree to which a study accurately measures what it intended to measure. In other words, it refers to the extent to which the study’s design can establish a causal relationship between the independent variable(s) and the dependent variable(s) being investigated, while ruling out alternative explanations for the results.
To achieve internal validity, a study must control for extraneous variables that could be responsible for the observed association between the independent variable(s) and the dependent variable(s). This can be achieved through the manipulation of the independent variable(s) and the random assignment of participants to experimental and control groups. Other ways to control for extraneous variables include using standardized procedures, blinding participants and experimenters, and using a placebo or sham intervention.
It is important to establish internal validity in research because it helps researchers to draw valid conclusions about the effects of interventions or treatments on the outcomes of interest. When a study lacks internal validity, the results may be due to factors other than the intervention being investigated, which can lead to inaccurate or misleading conclusions. To enhance internal validity, it is critical to design a study that is free from confounds, that has clear and precise procedures, and that is rigorously controlled.
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