Latent constructs

This fact sheet explains the concept of latent constructs and why validated multi-item measures are essential for their measurement in quantitative research. It outlines what constitutes a validated measure, common reviewer expectations, and how validated scales are typically implemented and reported in applied analyses. The document provides practical guidance for PhD students and researchers on selecting, adapting, and reporting measures, including considerations for reliability, single-item use, and when new measure development is warranted.