A Problem-Solving Tool for Single-Case Design Selection in Practice

Abstract

Single-case designs can rule out confounding variables with a variety of procedures which can be tailored to various contexts; thus, giving a practitioner the confidence in decision-making. Currently, some decision-making tools exist to help users with research questions; however, these tools may be less suited for the practice setting. This study aimed to develop and describe a problem-solving tool to assist clinicians in selecting SCDs in practice. After receiving survey results indicating the tool's potential utility, the tool was developed with input from subject matter experts and then evaluated in a preliminary study with six participants. All participants—either junior-status behavior analysts or graduate students in a behavior analytic program—reported feeling more confident in their selections and noted that the tool and table helped them consider additional factors relevant to the practice context. The implications of this tool within a supervisory model are discussed.