What research tactic manipulates an independent variable for a single individual?

What research tactic manipulates an independent variable for a single individual?

• A. Single-Case Experimental Design
• B. Group Experimental Design
• C. Longitudinal Study
• D. Cross-Sectional Study

Answer: (A)

The correct response emphasizes the use of a Single-Case Experimental Design, which is specifically structured to manipulate an independent variable while observing its effects on a single individual over a period of time. This design allows for detailed examination of the individual's response to the intervention, focusing on changes that occur when the independent variable is altered, thereby providing clear insights into cause-and-effect relationships on a micro level. In this methodology, the individual is often subjected to different conditions, and the variations in behavior or response are tracked meticulously. This design is particularly useful in fields like music therapy, where tailored interventions can be tested to see their impact on specific clients. In contrast, a Group Experimental Design analyzes the effects of an independent variable across a larger cohort, thereby averaging individual responses, which may obscure the nuances of how a variable affects a single person. Longitudinal Studies observe changes over time within a specific group or individual but do not typically involve direct manipulation of an independent variable. Cross-Sectional Studies provide a snapshot of different groups at a single point in time, also lacking the manipulation of variables that Single-Case Experimental Design incorporates.

The correct response emphasizes the use of a Single-Case Experimental Design, which is specifically structured to manipulate an independent variable while observing its effects on a single individual over a period of time. This design allows for detailed examination of the individual's response to the intervention, focusing on changes that occur when the independent variable is altered, thereby providing clear insights into cause-and-effect relationships on a micro level.

In this methodology, the individual is often subjected to different conditions, and the variations in behavior or response are tracked meticulously. This design is particularly useful in fields like music therapy, where tailored interventions can be tested to see their impact on specific clients.

In contrast, a Group Experimental Design analyzes the effects of an independent variable across a larger cohort, thereby averaging individual responses, which may obscure the nuances of how a variable affects a single person. Longitudinal Studies observe changes over time within a specific group or individual but do not typically involve direct manipulation of an independent variable. Cross-Sectional Studies provide a snapshot of different groups at a single point in time, also lacking the manipulation of variables that Single-Case Experimental Design incorporates.