ABSTRACT
The concept of measurement in psychological science has a long and rich history that is often overlooked by contemporary psychologists. As psychology has grown into a major area of research within universities and other institutions, its measurement practices have become entrenched within a concept of measurement that has departed from traditional notions of measurement found within the physical sciences. Although critiques of psychology’s measurement concept have been offered, they have failed to make an impact towards engendering meaningful debate or reformation. This chapter argues that psychology has been incorrigible in dealing with issues related to measurement, such that throughout its history psychology has routinely evaded serious criticism of its measurement practices. Support for this argument is given by outlining the history of measurement in psychology and describing a number of missteps that the discipline has made in defining and applying its measurement concept. In doing so, a brief review of Joel Michell’s critique of psychological measurement is outlined and aspects of recent measurement debates are described.
