This chapter presents a methodological framework for single subject designs. In particular, the historical roots of research methodology are examined, including a discussion as to possible barriers to application that resulted in the underutilization of single subject designs. Included is a comparison of the strengths and challenges in the context of internal and external validity. Compared to traditional between-group designs, single subject designs have comparable or stronger internal validity but are more limited in some aspects of external validity; that is, the single subject design may provide more definitive conclusions, but it can be more difficult to generalize those conclusions to other participants or patients. Strategies for overcoming these limitations are examined.
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Janosky, J.E., Leininger, S.L., Hoerger, M.P., Libkuman, T.M. (2009). Methodological Framework for Single Subject Designs. In: Single Subject Designs in Biomedicine. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-90-481-2444-2_3
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