Measurement Considerations in Performance Psychology

Abstract

We discuss the assumptions of trustworthy quantitative measurements required to meet scientific and ecological rigor, and emphasize the need for methodological triangulation and interpretative pluralism in qualitative research. We view measurement in performance psychology as theory-driven as well as one that aims at developing and refining theories. We expand on this argument by introducing a two-parameter measurement model aimed at capturing the cognitive-affective-behavioral linkage in performance psychology. We elaborate on measurement trends stemming from molecular biology and genetics and from advances in cognitive neuroscience aimed at capturing the multilayered human behavior and performance-mappings of either the peripheral or central human processes. We discuss how forward and reverse genetics may place gene research at the epicenter of human performance measurement. Finally, we comment on how the measurement of specific genotypes and neurological markers can be linked to performance outcomes.