Title
Theories, models, and standard systems of measurement
Abstract
Measurement theories in psychology may be classified
in terms of whether they begin from a general
measurement framework or from a specific area of
measurement. Points of contact between theories and
different specific measurement areas have been limited
by the choice of focus in discussions of general measurement
theories and specific theories or models. This
presentation outlines a metatheoretical framework that
begins with the obvious common factor in all areas,
the standard system of measurement. Just as a standard
is a commonly accepted unit of measurement, a
standard system is a commonly accepted mechanism
of measurement for a given area. The concept of a
standard system amplifies general definitions of measurement
and clarifies metatheoretical statements concerning
the requirements for measurement. Differences
between measurement situations may be categorized
by the type of standard system used and by features of
the attribute measured. Identification of different standard
systems and elements of the measurement process
provides a focus for comparisons between measurement
theories and models in different measurement
situations. Index terms: applied measurement
models, comparison of measurement models, definition
of measurement, measurement process, measurement
theory, metatheoretical framework for applied measurement
models, standard systems of measurement.
Identifiers
other: doi:10.1177/014662168801200401
Previously Published Citation
Aftanas, Marion S. (1988). Theories, models, and standard systems of measurement. Applied Psychological Measurement, 12, 325-338. doi:10.1177/014662168801200401
Suggested Citation
Aftanas, Marion S..
(1988).
Theories, models, and standard systems of measurement.
Retrieved from the University of Minnesota Digital Conservancy,
https://hdl.handle.net/11299/104308.