Discriminant validity inquiry

[Amash Malik]

Hello experts
I have a question for you? The HTMT value for two of my variables (EL, INJ) is 0.84 but the fornel larker value of EL-EL is 0.71 but that of EL-INJ IS 0.75. There is a contradiction between both criterions. Can I say that discriminant validity is established and if yes plz provide relevant references too. Really looking forward to your responses.
Thanks in advance

[jmbecker]

HTMT is the more important criterion as Fornell-Larker tends to be too liberal, i.e., it often does not indicate problems if they exist.

[Amash Malik]

Respected sir
In my case there is a slight issue with fornel larker but HTMT is fine. What would that mean for discriminant validity.

[jmbecker]

As the result for HTMT is also very close to the threshold of 0.85, I would conclude as a reviewer that discriminant validity is not given for the two constructs and therefore would question the validity of the findings.

[Amash Malik]

Thanks for your valuable response

[j_kour]

Hi jmbecker,

As the result for HTMT is also very close to the threshold of 0.85, I would conclude as a reviewer that discriminant validity is not given for the two constructs and therefore would question the validity of the findings.

Would it be a problem if the lack of discriminant validity was about constructs that are not directly related theoretically or in the model?

For example, in Amash's example, say that there is another latent variable like this EL -> ABC - INJ.

If HTMT showed lack of discriminant validity between EL - INJ, would it be a problem ?

Thanks