Self-Observation (Self-Monitoring)

Introduction

Self-monitoring refers to an assessment procedure in which individuals systematically observe instances of their own behaviour and maintain records of those occurrences. In self-monitoring, more than in other forms of assessment, the client becomes the assessor, learning to observe, document and measure behaviour as well as environmental variables that may control it. The [Page 854]resultant data ideally reflects the frequency, duration or intensity of target behaviours in the client's everyday environment, and provides a baseline against which to measure the effects of therapeutic interventions. In addition to measuring target behaviour, self-monitoring is often used to identify situational variables and consequences associated with the client's behaviour in natural settings. This information can be used in a functional analysis of problem behaviours and the development of therapeutic interventions. In the following sections, the advantages and disadvantages of self-monitoring relative to other assessment methods are discussed. Issues concerning the implementation and accuracy of self-monitoring as well as its therapeutic effects are also described. Some potential directions for future research are also offered.

Self-Monitoring as an Assessment Tool

Self-monitoring is widely used in clinical practice (Elliot, Miltenberger, Kaster-Bundgaard & Lumley, 1996), and is considered to be one of the most direct forms of behavioural assessment (Cone, 1978). It is more direct than self-report questionnaires in that it assesses behaviours at the time of their occurrence. It is therefore less reliant on processes of recollection and less susceptible to memory errors and distortions. The main disadvantages of self-monitoring relative to self-report is that self-monitoring requires more time and effort, and that there are no population norms for self-monitored data.

Self-monitoring also has advantages over the use of direct observation by trained observers. Direct observation is often impractical, due to time constraints, cost factors, the scarcity of adequately trained observers, and the likelihood that the presence of observers will alter the frequency or form of target behaviours. Moreover, many treatment targets are not amenable to direct observation. For example, thoughts and feelings are private by nature and cannot be observed by others. Alternatively, behaviours may be private by convention, such as sexual behaviour, and the less intrusive method of self-monitoring may be more appropriate.

Methods of Self-Monitoring in Behavioural Assessment

The general goals of behavioural assessment are to measure behaviour and identify its controlling variables. This investigative process typically begins with a broad focus on a wide range of potential target behaviours, and progressively focuses on more specific behavioural targets for change. Self-monitoring methods can be selected to suit each stage of this process.