Final answer:
The statement is false because variations in test scores under the same conditions by the same individual suggest issues with the test's reliability, not necessarily its validity. Validity assesses accuracy, whereas reliability considers consistency of the results.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question "The distribution of scores obtained by an individual taking a test of some trait multiple times under the same context is likely to be due to the test's lack of validity." is answered as false. If a test is valid, it should consistently measure what it aims to measure each time it is taken under the same conditions by the same individual. Therefore, a variation in scores could suggest possible issues with the test's reliability rather than its validity. Reliability refers to the consistency of the scores obtained, whereas validity refers to whether the test accurately measures what it is supposed to measure.
A valid test could have fluctuations in scores due to random factors or measurement errors, which is more indicative of reliability issues. Conversely, a reliable test that yields the same results repeatedly may still lack validity if it does not measure the intended trait accurately. An assessment is needed of both reliability and validity to determine the overall usefulness of a test.