The cognitive domain has long been the focus of clinical and scientific efforts in dementia research. Only recently has behavior, and more specifically behavioral problems, been recognized as a legitimate focus of research. In its summary statement of September 1991, the Alzheimer's Association Task Force on Behavior Management noted the following with regarding behavioral disturbances: “(a) the study of assessment and treatment of behavioral problems must develop in its own right as well as complement studies on improving cognition; (b) controlled clinical trials of behavioral treatments of behavioral disturbances are desperately needed; and (c) both standardized rating scales and direct behavioral observations should be used to assess problems and determine treatment efficacy.” [Emphasis added by author.]