Which feature is NOT a key characteristic of a scientific theory in psychology?

A scientific theory in psychology is built upon foundational principles that help to ensure its validity and reliability. The defining characteristics of a scientific theory include testability, falsifiability, and the reliance on empirical evidence.

Testability refers to the ability to devise experiments or observations that can confirm or refute the theory. This allows researchers to examine whether the predictions made by the theory hold true across different situations and populations.

Falsifiability is a crucial aspect, as it allows theories to be challenged and potentially proven wrong. A theory must make specific predictions that can be tested; if those predictions do not hold true, the theory must be adjusted or discarded. This is fundamental to the scientific method, which seeks to refine understanding through rigorous testing.

Empirical evidence is the backbone of scientific theories, as it involves gathering data through observation and experimentation. A theory must be supported by observable and measurable evidence to be considered scientifically valid.

In contrast, reliability, while an important aspect of psychological research and measurement tools, does not define a scientific theory itself. Reliability refers to the consistency of a measure or procedure over time, rather than the attributes of the theory itself. Thus, it is not a key characteristic of what constitutes a scientific theory in psychology.