Experimental Design and Research Flashcards

Which experimental design feature in single-subject research demonstrates experimental control by showing that behavior changes only when the independent variable is applied?

Answer: Replication of effect

Replication of effect within and across participants demonstrates experimental control by showing the behavior reliably changes when the independent variable is introduced and reverses when it is removed.

In an ABAB reversal design, what does the second 'A' phase demonstrate?

Answer: The behavior returns toward baseline when the intervention is removed, demonstrating experimental control

The second A phase (return to baseline) demonstrates experimental control by showing that behavior reverts when the independent variable is withdrawn, ruling out coincidental factors.

Which design introduces the independent variable to different behaviors, participants, or settings at staggered time points to demonstrate experimental control without reversing treatment?

Answer: Multiple baseline design

A multiple baseline design introduces the intervention sequentially across baselines (behaviors, settings, or participants), demonstrating control without requiring a reversal of treatment.

Which single-subject design is most appropriate for evaluating the relative effectiveness of two or more interventions in rapid succession?

Answer: Alternating treatments design

The alternating treatments design (ATD) rapidly alternates two or more conditions within or across sessions, allowing comparison of intervention effects under similar conditions.

In a changing criterion design, experimental control is demonstrated when behavior matches what?

Answer: Each successive performance criterion specified in the design

In a changing criterion design, experimental control is shown when behavior steps up (or down) to match each new criterion level as it changes across phases.

What is the primary internal validity threat that a multiple baseline design controls for?

Answer: Maturation and history confounds addressed by staggered baselines

Multiple baseline designs control for history and maturation by staggering intervention introduction; if improvement occurs only when the treatment is applied to each baseline, extraneous factors are ruled out.