An overview of self-monitoring research in assessment and treatment

Although widely utilized within clinical assessment, self-monitoring has re ceived little direct research attention since the early 1980s. The assessme nt and treatment functions of self-monitoring are described and illustrated in this article. As an assessment method, self-monitoring can provide valu able information for diagnosis, target behavior selection, functional asses sment, and treatment monitoring. Research findings delineating variables kn own to influence the accuracy and reactivity associated with self-monitorin g are reviewed. Some suggestions are made for additional research that migh t be conducted regarding self-monitoring accuracy, effects on clients, and utility within treatment.