Operational Definition
Also called: behavioral definition, target definition, observable and measurable
Definition
A description of a behavior in terms of what can be seen and counted, stated precisely enough that two independent observers would agree on whether it occurred. It describes movement and form rather than inferred feelings, motives, or labels.
In plain language
Describing a behavior by what you can see and count. It is written so clearly that two people watching would agree on whether it happened.
Examples
Leaves the assigned area without permission and moves more than two metres from the table.
Two observers could agree on this without guessing at intent.
Places head on the desk for longer than five continuous seconds during instruction.
Not operational definition
Is defiant. Two observers would score this differently because it names a judgement rather than a movement.
Gets frustrated easily. Frustration cannot be observed directly, only guessed at from behavior.
See also
Written from
- baer-wolf-risley-1968 — Behavioral and measurement dimensions
Written from the measurement standards in the founding dimensions paper. No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.