Optimizing behavioral health interventions with single-case designs: from development to dissemination

Abstract

Over the past 70 years, single-case design (SCD) research has evolved to include a broad array of methodological and analytic advances. In this article, we describe some of these advances and discuss how SCDs can be used to optimize behavioral health interventions. Specifically, we discuss how parametric analysis, component analysis, and systematic replications can be used to optimize interventions. We also describe how SCDs can address other features of optimization, which include establishing generality and enabling personalized behavioral medicine. Throughout, we highlight how SCDs can be used during both the development and dissemination stages of behavioral health interventions.

Keywords: Generality; Optimization; Research designs; Single-case designs.

Figures

Fig 1

Example of a reversal design showing experimental control and replications within and between subjects. Each panel represents a different participant, each of whom experienced two baseline and two treatment conditions

Fig 2

Example of a multiple-baseline design showing experimental control and replications between subjects. Each row represents a different participant, each of whom experienced a baseline and treatment. The baseline durations differed across participants

Fig 3

Two examples of possible results from a component analysis. BSL baseline, X first component, Y second component. The panel on the left shows an additive effect of components X and Y, and the panel of the right shows a multiplicative effect of components X and Y