Why might a researcher focus on single-case experimental designs?

Focusing on single-case experimental designs allows researchers to explore the detailed, individualized effects of interventions. This approach is particularly valuable in the field of psychology, where individual differences can significantly influence the outcomes of therapeutic interventions.

By studying one individual or a small group over time, researchers can closely monitor changes in behavior, thoughts, or emotions in response to specific interventions. This level of detail helps to isolate the effects of the intervention from other potential influences, providing clearer insights into how and why an intervention works for that particular case. This is essential for tailoring treatments to meet the unique needs of individuals, especially in clinical settings where personalized care is crucial.

This methodology also enables researchers to conduct rigorous analyses within the single case, allowing for the accumulation of data that can illustrate trends and effects that might not be evident in larger group studies where individual variability can obscure findings. Single-case designs are particularly useful in contexts where conditions must be carefully controlled or when the phenomena being studied are rare, making larger studies more difficult or impractical.