State the primary assumption of single-subject research regarding how researchers should study participants, and explain the two main reasons provided in the course material for adopting this individual focus.
Question: State the primary assumption of single-subject research regarding how researchers should study participants, and explain the two main reasons provided in the course material for adopting this individual focus.
Sample answer: The primary assumption of single-subject research is that researchers must focus intensively on individual participants rather than averages. The first reason for this focus is that group-based research can obscure individual differences, such as a treatment being beneficial for some participants but detrimental to others. The second reason is that focusing on individuals is highly practical when the specific objective is to change a particular person's behavior.
Key points:
- Focusing intensively on individual participants rather than averages
- Group research can obscure individual differences (e.g., treatment is beneficial for some but detrimental to others)
- Focusing on individuals is highly practical when the objective is to change a specific person's behavior
Rubric: The response must accurately identify the primary assumption as focusing intensively on individuals rather than averages. It must also list the two reasons: group research obscures individual differences (e.g., opposing treatment effects), and it is practical when trying to change a specific individual's behavior.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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