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Updated: May 5, 2026

Assessment of Social Interaction Behaviors
Published on: February 25, 2011
A systematic review of social-validity assessments in the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis: 2010-2020
Erin S Leif1, Nadine Kelenc-Gasior1, Bradley S Bloomfield1
1Faculty of Education, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
Abstract:
We conducted a systematic review of studies published in the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis between 2010 and 2020 to identify reports of social validity. A total of 160 studies (17.60%) published during this time included a measure of social validity. For each study, we extracted data on (a) the dimensions of social validity, (b) the methods used for collecting social-validity data, (c) the respondents, and (d) when social-validity data were collected. Most social-validity assessments measured the acceptability of intervention procedures and outcomes, with fewer evaluating goals. The most common method for collecting social validity data was Likert-type rating scales, followed by non-Likert-type questionnaires. In most studies, the direct recipients of the intervention provided feedback on social validity. Social-validity assessment data were often collected at the conclusion of the study. We provide examples of social-validity measurement methods, discuss their strengths and limitations, and provide recommendations for improving the future collection and reporting of social-validity data.
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