Goal Attainment Scaling

Goal attainment scaling is becoming an increasingly popular technique for evaluating the functional goal attainment of children receiving pediatric therapy services. This article reports on the experiences of the authors in conducting formal program evaluations using this individualized measurement approach. Goal attainment scaling is described, its utility is assessed, and issues in its use are identified. The article considers the pros and cons of the technique, highlights the key decisions required to use goal attainment scaling effectively, and provides standard criteria and procedures for its use in pediatric settings.