THE STRONG VOCATIONAL INTEREST BLANK IN PREDICTING NROTC OFFICER RETENTION: PART II. FAKABILITY

Abstract

Abstract : Since 1964, the Strong Vocational Interest Blank (SVIB) has been administered to NROTC (Regular) applicants. Inasmuch as retention scale scores from the SVIB are used in selection, it was essential to assess this scale's fakability. A great deal of civilian research has indicated the SVIB to be of value in predicting occupational tenure. In addition, recent research at this activity on this instrument has indicated its value in predicting naval officer tenure. The responses of several groups of subjects administered the SVIB under a variety of conditions were contrasted. A scale reflecting differences between standard and faked responses was constructed and applied to a variety of NROTC samples for comparison. Under instructions to do so, some individuals can increase their scores by faking. However, for NROTC applicants it appears that while there is a slight tendency for applicants to fake responses, as measured by a fake detection scale, there is very little actual gain on the retention scale itself. It was recommended that since faking does not appear to be a serious problem, the use of the SVIB career retention scale be continued in officer selection.