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Based on the concept of clinical significance, explain why a clinic director might choose not to implement this new VR intervention, and explain how the real-world factors from the scenario justify this decision.
Case context: A research group develops a new virtual reality (VR) intervention for public speaking anxiety. In a controlled study, the VR intervention produces a statistically significant reduction in anxiety symptoms. However, the VR equipment costs per unit, requires hours of specialized staff training to operate, and provides only a minor improvement in efficacy compared to a standard, free breathing exercise that clinics already use.
Question: Based on the concept of clinical significance, explain why a clinic director might choose not to implement this new VR intervention, and explain how the real-world factors from the scenario justify this decision.
Sample answer: The clinic director might decide not to implement the VR intervention because it lacks clinical significance. Although the treatment has a statistically significant positive effect, this benefit is not substantial enough to justify the high cost of and the effort of hours of staff training. This is especially true when compared to the existing alternative (the free breathing exercise) which is already in use and performs almost as well without the added expenses.
Key points:
- Explain that the intervention lacks clinical significance despite its positive statistical effect.
- Identify the high monetary cost () as a factor that is not justified by the minor improvement.
- Identify the effort and time required for training ( hours) as an unjustified burden.
- Contrast the new intervention with the existing alternative (free breathing exercise) to show the lack of relative benefit.
Rubric: The response must explain that the intervention lacks clinical significance. It must show comprehension by detailing how the minor improvement does not justify the high cost and staff training effort, particularly when compared to a free and effective existing alternative.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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