Factors that contribute to measurement error include

Verification: One of three components of the experimental reasoning, or baseline logic, used in single-subject research designs; accomplished by demonstrating that the prior level of baseline responding would have remained unchanged had the independent variable not been introduced. Verifying the accuracy of the original prediction reduces the probability that some uncontrolled (confounding) variable was responsible for the observed change in behavior.  Applied Behavior Analysis (2nd Edition) Scenario: Verification Phase: Why is this Verification?

Trend: The overall direction taken by a data path. It is described in terms of direction (increasing, decreasing, or zero trend), degree (gradual or steep), and the extent of variability of data points around the trend. Trend is used in predicting future measures of the behavior under changing conditions. Applied Behavior Analysis (2nd Edition)

Threats to validity include mortality, maturation, experimenter bias, regression to the mean, selection, reactive measures, repeated measures, history and instrumentation.  Applied Behavior Analysis (2nd Edition) History: A major holiday season occurs during the intervention phase of a study on employee productivity. The increased distractions and potential shift in employee motivation due to the holiday season could influence the results, making it difficult to determine if the intervention was the true cause of any observed changes. Instrumentation: A researcher observing a child’s social interactions changes their observation criteria mid-study. For example, they might become more lenient in what they consider “positive social interaction” after observing several instances of challenging behavior. This inconsistency in measurement can skew the results. Mortality: A study on a new reading intervention program experiences high dropout rates among participants with severe reading difficulties. This attrition can bias the results, as the remaining participants may be more responsive…

The dimensional qualities of behavior from which all behavioral measurements are derived include temporal extent, temporal locus, and repeatability. Temporal Extent: refers to the fact that every instance of behavior occurs during some amount of time. Temporal Locus: refers to the fact that every instance of behavior occurs at a certain point int time with respect to other events. Repeatability: refers to the fact that a behavior can occur repeatedly through time.

Operant Behavior: Behavior that is selected, maintained, and brought under stimulus control as a function of its consequences; each person’s repertoire of operant behavior is a product of his history of interactions with the environment (ontogeny).  Applied Behavior Analysis (2nd Edition) Understanding Operant Behavior: The Power of Consequences Operant behavior is a cornerstone concept in the field of behavior analysis. In simple terms, it refers to any behavior that is influenced by its consequences. Think of it this way: our actions are not random; they are shaped by the outcomes they produce. Key Characteristics of Operant Behavior: Selected by Consequences: Operant behavior is not innate; it is learned. Through repeated experiences, we learn that certain behaviors lead to desirable outcomes (reinforcers) while others lead to undesirable outcomes (punishers). Maintained by Consequences: Once a behavior is learned, it is maintained as long as the reinforcing or punishing consequences continue to occur….