Single-subject design method, a quantitative research method, is a method proposed for practice-based primary research that involves studying the behavior of a small number of participants in detail. This method was used by searchers because this design is sensitive towards individual differences and focuses intensively on the behavior of each individual (Shadish & Rindskopf, 2007). However, this design method was influential in the past but has not been in use too often today because of various reasons that include limited generalizability, lack of statistical power, limited external validity, and advancements in technology.
The single-subject design also known as small-n design and single-case experimental design focuses mainly on understanding objective behavior through experimental control and manipulation which does not provide a comprehensive understanding of individual participant’s behavior. This method often lacks the statistical power which can be achieved with the use of different sophisticated technological tools in today’s research method to detect small effects in group research. Moreover, it limits the feasibility of conducting studies on large-scale and broader as well as diverse contexts due to the absence of a control group (Hammond & Gast, 2010).
Contrary to this design method, group research allows researchers to assess the behavior of larger populations which leads to robust statistical analyses and more generalizable results. However, the single-subject design still has its merits and can be used in certain situations when studying interventions or treatments for individual cases in the field of healthcare. This method can also be used by researchers in educational settings to evaluate the effectiveness of specific behavioral interventions or certain teaching methods.
In summary, the single-subject design method has limitations that contributed to its decreased popularity for a long time. However, this method still has its place in certain areas of Psychology and its related fields as this method can be valuable for exploring new research questions to understand individual behavior.
References
Hammond, D., & Gast, D. L. (2010). Descriptive analysis of single subject research designs: 1983—2007. Education and Training in Autism and Developmental Disabilities, 187–202.
Shadish, W. R., & Rindskopf, D. M. (2007). Methods for evidence‐based practice: Quantitative synthesis of single‐subject designs. New Directions for Evaluation, 2007(113), 95–109.
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