What does momentary time sampling measure?

Momentary time sampling is a method used in behavioral observation to measure the presence or absence of a behavior at specific intervals throughout an observation period. In this technique, observers note whether a behavior occurs at predetermined moments, typically at the end of set intervals. This means the observer only records the behavior that is happening at that exact moment, not throughout the entire interval or its intensity.

Therefore, the choice that aligns with this method is the option that states behavior is recorded only at the start of an interval. This allows for a quick assessment of whether the behavior is occurring at specific points in time without the need to track behavior continuously over the entire duration of the observation. This method efficiently provides data on behavior while requiring less intensive observation than continuous recording.