construtos

Construtos is a term used in several languages, notably Portuguese and Spanish, to denote theoretical constructs—abstract entities or ideas introduced within a theory to explain or organize observations. In this usage, a construto is not directly observable but is defined by the set of indicators, measurements, or operations that are used to infer its presence in empirical data.

In psychology and education, construtos such as intelligence, motivation, self-efficacy, or anxiety are stated properties of individuals or groups. Researchers operationalize these construtos by selecting observable indicators (test scores, survey responses, behavior counts) and then assess the construct through methods that examine reliability and validity. Construct validity, including convergent and discriminant validity, is central to determining whether the indicators truly reflect the intended construto rather than unrelated phenomena.

In sociology and anthropology, construtos often describe phenomena that are socially created or maintained, such as gender roles, race classifications, or social capital. The study of these construtos emphasizes how cultural meanings, institutions, and language shape and transform these concepts over time.

In philosophy of science, construtos are discussed within constructivist or instrumentalist frameworks, which highlight the role of human cognition, social practice, and theoretical constraints in generating scientific knowledge. Debates frequently address questions about realism versus anti-realism and the extent to which construtos correspond to an objective reality.

See also: construct, construct validity, operationalization, social construction, constructivism.