psychometrics

n. A subdiscipline of psychology focusing on the measurement of individual differences across a range of human constructs (including attitudes, abilities, interests, beliefs, achievement, personality, and knowledge). Psychometric research aims to enhance the theoretical understanding of psychological assessment as well as create tests, instruments, and procedures to be utilized in an applied setting. Much of the emphasis in psychometrics is integrating theory and statistics to ensure that psychological tests and measurements are valid and reliable. – BJM