The Influence of Explanations for Selection Test Use, Outcome Favorability, and Self-Efficacy on Test-Taker Perceptions

Abstract

Previous research has shown that an explanation for an event can affect reactions to that event. This study examined this effect within a selection context by varying the type of explanation (causal, ideological, referential) and outcome favorability. A sample of 202 undergraduates completed a selection test and reported their perceptions of that test both before and after the outcome was known. Both the type of explanation and outcome favorability interacted with participants' self-efficacy in determining perceptions of validity and fairness. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.