Exploring psychologists' perspectives about using single-case designs in clinical practice: A theory-based interview study

Study background

Most treatment guidelines are developed based on research that focuses on how groups of patients respond to a treatment on average (i.e. findings from a randomised controlled trial). However, response to treatment may vary substantially from one patient to another. Due to a focus on the average response, studies using traditional research designs may not identify patients who do not respond or who are harmed by a particular treatment. Single-case designs have emerged as a rigorous scientific method that can be used to identify individual patient response to treatments. The study aims to explore psychologists' perspectives about the barriers and facilitators for conducting single-case studies in clinical practice.

What the study involves

Participants will complete a 30-40 minute interview in person or via telephone or video call (e.g. Zoom). Prior to the interview, participants will complete a brief online questionnaire and watch a video describing what single-case designs are. Participants will then take part in an interview where the researcher will ask a series of questions about their views on using single-case designs in clinical practice. The interview will be audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Participants will receive a $35 shopping voucher to thank them for taking part. 

Ethical Approval

This study adheres to the Guidelines of the ethical review process of The University of Queensland and the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research. Ethics ID: 2019/HE002372.