Which term describes the accuracy of research findings in properly capturing the research question?

The term that describes the accuracy of research findings in properly capturing the research question is validity. Validity refers to the extent to which a research study accurately reflects or assesses the specific concept that it aims to measure. This means that the findings of the research truly represent the reality of the situation and address the research question effectively.

In the context of criminal justice research, establishing validity is crucial as it ensures that the conclusions drawn from the study are sound and can be trusted by practitioners, policymakers, and academics alike. If the research findings are valid, it indicates that the methodology used was appropriate and that the results are credible.

Other terms like reliability, replicability, and feasibility relate to different aspects of research but do not directly address the concept of accuracy in measuring the research question. Reliability pertains to the consistency of a measure across time and contexts, replicability refers to the ability to reproduce research findings in subsequent studies, and feasibility addresses the practicality and possibility of conducting the research within the constraints of time, budget, and resources.