In behavioral observation, what does "frequency count" measure?

Frequency count specifically measures the number of times a certain behavior occurs within a specified observation period. This approach is commonly used in behavioral observation to quantify behaviors, allowing therapists to track patterns and changes over time. By tallying how often a behavior happens, practitioners can gain insight into areas that may need intervention, gauge progress, or assess the effectiveness of treatment strategies.

In contrast to frequency count, measuring the intensity of a behavior focuses on how strong or powerful that behavior is, while duration looks at how long the behavior lasts. The range of different behaviors takes into account the variety of behaviors exhibited rather than just counting their occurrences. Therefore, frequency count provides a straightforward and objective means to observe and document behavior patterns.