Behaviour scatterplot data sheet: time windows, context and coverage

A behaviour scatterplot is a time-window grid

In behaviour recording, a scatterplot commonly places time windows down one axis and dates across the other. IRIS describes its use for observing time and context patterns [MEA1]. This differs from a statistical scatter chart plotting the relationship between two numeric variables.

Use the same definition and window lengths across comparable cells. An occurrence-only key answers whether an event happened at least once; it does not provide exact frequency, duration or behavioural function. Select the observation arrangement for a meaningful clinical question rather than assume every hour requires monitoring.

Fill the original blank scatterplot sheet

The pack includes a weekly grid and a coverage/context log. Keep the key written on the sheet so a blank cell cannot be mistaken for “did not occur”.

1. Define the observable event, reference period, recorder and definition version.
2. Enter the dates and planned time windows. State whether the whole window must be observed for a valid occurrence/nonoccurrence cell.
3. Use an explicit key: O = occurred in a valid window; Z = fully observed with no occurrence; P = partial coverage; N = no observation arranged; M = expected record missing.
4. Record the cell promptly and add the actual activity, coverage and unusual context to the second page.
5. Summarize O and Z cells using only valid comparable windows, with P, N and M counts visible.
6. Review where further observation is useful. Use an ABC or timing record for detail rather than assigning a cause to a dark cell.

Completed fictional scatterplot with a clear key

Fictional definition S1 records whether Client F says “help” or uses their agreed help symbol at least once during each chosen ten-minute activity window. Monday to Wednesday are invented observation days. No additional communication prompt is given in the recorded O cells; the definition is illustrative, not a goal.

Swipe or scroll sideways to view all table columns.

Interpret the grid without replacing missing cells with zero

Across six valid windows, the event occurred in three: 3 ÷ 6 × 100 = 50% of valid windows. Report one partial window, one unscheduled window and one missing record alongside that percentage. Dividing by nine would silently count unknown or unavailable observations as nonoccurrences.

The drawing row has two valid occurrence windows, but only two fully observed days. Write “2 of 2 valid windows; one partial window” rather than “every day”. A single O cell could contain one request or several, so this grid cannot support a requests-per-hour calculation.

The next review question could be whether access to materials and opportunities differ across activities. That is a question for further observation, not proof that the activity caused the event. Record opportunities and environment alongside counts if the clinician needs those comparisons.

Use context records and avoid common scatterplot mistakes

If an occurrence needs more detail, record observable events before, during and after it in the ABC sheet, with the same definition reference. A time pattern can help schedule descriptive observations, but neither a scatterplot nor an ABC sequence establishes a functional relation by itself.

Common mistakes are using unequal windows without disclosure, changing the key partway through a week, treating unscheduled hours as zero, and calling an occurrence grid a frequency count. Do not add a clinical intensity label without a defined and reviewed scale. Preserve the original grid and document corrections rather than overwriting uncertainty.

Use the sheet, tools and clinical record together

Use fictional or deidentified information in the public tools. Keep identifiable observations and completed forms in the practice-approved clinical record under the clinic’s access, retention and amendment policies.

A public worksheet helps prepare and inspect a recording format. It does not authorize a treatment, decide mastery, replace consent or turn a draft into a reviewed clinical record. A clinician should confirm definitions, denominators and interpretation before the team uses the form.

TherapyCRM serves English-language practices in Canada outside Quebec. It is practice management software with a clinical record, not a physician EMR, and has no EMR certification. It has no telehealth or video visits and does not submit insurance or government claims, including Ontario Autism Program claims.

Sources and scope of this original resource

The blank record and every worked entry are original TherapyCRM examples. Sources explain the professional topic; they do not endorse this template. School resources and research studies require interpretation by a qualified clinician for a real clinic. No standardized assessment, publisher form or licensed guideline is reproduced.

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