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Validity and Reliability Evidence for Assessments Based in Applied Behavior Analysis: A Systematic Review.
Kristen L Padilla1, Regan Weston1, Grant B Morgan1
1Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA.
Behavior Modification
|July 6, 2022
Summary
This review found conflicting evidence for criterion-referenced assessments in applied behavior analysis (ABA). Many assessments used by ABA professionals lack sufficient reliability and validity research.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Psychometrics
Background:
- Criterion-referenced assessments are frequently used in applied behavior analysis (ABA).
- Evidence supporting the reliability and validity of these assessments is crucial for effective clinical practice.
- A systematic review is needed to evaluate the existing psychometric evidence for ABA-based assessments.
Approach:
- A systematic review was conducted to identify and synthesize studies reporting reliability and validity evidence for criterion-referenced assessments in ABA.
- 46 studies were included, examining six different assessments.
- Data on participant characteristics, geographic location, and research settings were extracted and summarized.
Key Points:
- Conflicting evidence exists regarding the reliability and validity of commonly used ABA assessments.
- A significant number of ABA professionals report using assessments lacking robust psychometric support.
- Inconsistent use of measurement terminology and statistical analyses were noted across studies.
Conclusions:
- There appears to be a gap between the assessments utilized in ABA practice and the available psychometric evidence.
- Recommendations are provided for enhancing measurement rigor in clinical practice and future research.
- Further research is needed to strengthen the evidence base for criterion-referenced assessments in ABA.
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