The Measurement of Behavioral Complexity
Measuring the effectiveness of complex human functioning in work and in day-to-day life settings has been rather difficult…
Optimally, we would assess multiple components of complex functioning with high levels of reliability and validity. It is exceedingly difficult to develop measures that generate an encompassing picture of overall effectiveness. In addition, it is quite a challenge to develop research tasks that allow effective measurement of complex functioning. Of course, optimal measurement of functioning is best achieved when both measures and the task setting approximate real-world demands.
A number of measurement techniques designed to assess cognitive and behavioral complexity are considered. While early measures limit their focus to interpersonal differentiation, later measures consider differentiation, integration, and, in one case, various other aspects of information processing structure. Objective paper-and-pencil measures, subjective response assessment, and simulation technology are briefly described.
