Whole interval recording is characterized as which type of measurement?

Whole interval recording is characterized as the most conservative type of measurement because it requires the observer to note whether a behavior occurs throughout an entire interval. In this method, the behavior must occur for the full length of the interval to be marked as having occurred, which means that instances of the behavior that occur only partially during the interval are not counted. This results in a higher likelihood of underreporting the occurrence of the behavior, as short or transient instances may be overlooked.

This approach contrasts with other forms of data collection that may allow for behaviors to be recorded even if they only partially fit the measurement criteria. Whole interval recording emphasizes only those behaviors that are sustained and uninterrupted, thereby establishing a conservative estimate of the behavior's occurrence over time. This characteristic makes it particularly useful when the goal is to prioritize and capture behaviors that are consistent and durable rather than fleeting.