Two Adaptable, Valid, and Reliable Data-Collection Measures

Abstract

Finding an appropriate, statistically sound means of collecting data is an important step in developing research. Researchers in counseling psychology have recently been criticized for studies unrelated to actual practice. Goal attainment scaling and the semantic differential are presented as two flexible, reliable, and valid data-collection methodologies useful for practitioners. Procedural instructions and examples for constructing each instrument are provided. A short history of the two instruments is presented, along with a discussion of the specific type of research most appropriate for each methodology.