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1.4 Purpose of Single-Subject Research

Single-subject research is usually conducted with one participant at a time, and we measure that participant’s behavior under different conditions. This way, we can evaluate if – and how much – an intervention changes that individual’s behavior. Here are some examples of questions we can try to answer using single-subject research.

Purpose of Single-Subject Research:

Does an INTERVENTION cause a change in BEHAVIOR?

Will single-subject research determine if my roommate will make dinner more often based on the purpose of washing the dishes?
Conducting a single-subject research to determine if providing the student with books that match her reading level will serve the purpose of increasing her engagement in free reading.
Conducting single-subject research by spraying your cat with water when she scratches the couch serves the purpose of reducing her scratching behavior.
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I believe intervention does cause a change in behaviour. However, I do think the relationship between the interventionist and subject affects the degree to which an intervention may or may not be successful. For example, I am more likely to accept an intervention from my siblings than my parents. In addition, a subject’s motivation for change and desired outcomes may affect the effectiveness of the intervention.

That is an interesting statement above, especially when dealing with family dynamics. Sometimes the intervention from parents is unwarranted from a child; thinking of the teen years, when so many other dynamics to the relationship are challenged. I reflect back on my two children, somethings worked for one child and not for the other. I agree that the relationship is integral between individuals along with motivation.

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