Behavior-Therapy Assessment: Diagnosis, Design and Evaluation

Abstract

This paper discusses the development of behavior-therapy assessment as it relates to social learning theory and practice of behavior modification. Characteristic features of behavior-therapy assessment are outlined and discussed. In addition, a framework is provided for considering assessment in terms of initial decision making and selection of target behavior, design of treatment programs, and evaluation of outcome of treatment. Problems concerning reliability, validity and generalizability are discussed in relation to each of the phases in assessment.