Abstract
The value of applying behavioral assessment methods to the field of pediatric psychology is addressed. Three major areas of behavioral assess ment are examined: behavioral interviews, rating scales, and direct observa (ion measures. Examples of recently developed instruments with particular utility in pediatric research and clinical practice are described. The paper emphasizes the potential of behavioral measurement to advance our knowledge of the behavioral correlates of childhood illness and the effects of intervention and to facilitate precise communication of this information among professionals.