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| In scientific theory a hypothetical construct is an
explanatory variable which is not directly observable. For
example, the concepts of intelligence and motivation are used to
explain phenomena in psychology, but neither is directly
observable. A hypothetical construct differs from an intervening
variable in that it has properties and implications which have
not been demonstrated in empirical research. These serve as a
guide to further research. An intervening variable is a summary
of observed empirical findings. Cronbach and Meehl define a
hypothetical construct as a concept for which there is not a
single observable referent, which cannot be directly observed,
and for which there exist multiple referents, but none all-
inclusive. For example, according to Cronbach and Meehl a fish
is not a hypothetical construct because, despite variation in
species and varieties of fish, there is an