behavior coding
a method of recording observations in which defined labels are used by specially trained individuals to denote specific qualities and characteristics of behaviors as they are witnessed. For example, a developmental researcher might use the following coding scheme for infant vocalizations: (a) vowels; (b) syllables (i.e., consonant–vowel transitions); (c) babbling (a sequence of repeated syllables); and (d) other (e.g., crying, laughing, vegetative sounds such as cooing). Behavior coding systems typically are specific to a given study and the behaviors under investigation.