Social Validity and Treatment Integrity Data: Reporting in Articles Published in the Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities, 1991-1995

Abstract

In general, social validity data reflect the social significance of target behaviors, the appropriateness of procedures, and the perceived importance of results. Intervention integrity data provide evidence that treatments are implemented in the intended fashion. The present paper discusses social validity and intervention integrity data and considers their possible importance. It also reports how often such data were reported in treatment articles published in theJournal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities from 1991 through 1995. Social validity data were presented in 5 of 39 treatment articles (13%). Intervention integrity data were presented in 9 of 39 articles (23%). When social validity data were presented, reliability and validity of the measures were never discussed. Although it is not necessary to assess social validity or intervention integrity to conduct a quality study, or to publish such a study in theJournal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities, doing so is in many cases relatively easy, and may help readers to evaluate the scientific and practical importance of reported findings.