Research Methods in Applied Behavior Analysis
- Jon S. Bailey - Florida State University School of Social Work
- Mary R. Burch - Behavior Management Consultants, Inc.
This very practical, how-to text provides the beginning researcher with the basics of applied behavior analysis research methods. In 10 logical steps, this text covers all of the elements of single-subject research design and it provides practical information for designing, implementing, and evaluating studies. Using a pocketbook format, the authors provide novice researcher with a "steps-for-success" approach that is brief, to-the-point, and clearly delineated.
I'm teaching a research course including single subject design.
Research methods in applied behavior analysis introduces the reader to behaviour analysis and its purpose: to produce empirically tested treatments and interventions which have been shown to help modify an individual's behaviour. This text covers good research design practices and methods used in applied behaviour analysis. The research design section consists of 10 steps which the reader can use when planning out their research project and covers topics such as: choosing a research topic to research, developing research questions using literature searches, identifying dependent and independent variables, establishing validity in research, selecting an appropriate data collection system, pilot and testing variables for accuracy, ethical issues in conducting social research and presenting and publishing research findings. This book is recommended reading for researchers and students conducting social research or social-psycho research related to behavior in individuals. This text is well written in terms of the language being accessible to researchers and students new to this topic, or field and provides a useful research project check list as a guide to help the reader follow good practices in social research.
