Research Methods in Behavior Change Programs

1
Research Methods in Behavior Change Programs

• Chapter 11

2
Accuracy of Data Training and Monitoring
Observers

• Other procedures can enhance accuracy
• let observers know their accuracy will be checked
• use interobserver reliability procedures in
  training
• use the procedures to evaluate the accuracy of
  self-monitoring

3
Sources of Data Inaccuracies

• Measure outcomes of behavior
• Rating scale questions labels not clearly
  defined
• Self-report data may be flawed poor memory
• Reactivity effects
• Poor operational definition
• Observers may not be trained or motivated to
  record accurately

4
Accuracy of Data Increasing Reliability

• Use more than one independent observer
• Check interobserver reliability of observers
• Train and monitor observers

5
Intrasubject Research

• AB Designs
• ABAB (Reversal) Designs
• Multiple Baseline Designs
• Across Behaviors
• Across Situations
• Across Individuals
• Changing Criterion Designs
• Alternating Treatment Designs

6
Reversal Designs
7
Multiple Baselines Across Behaviors
8
Alternating-Treatment Design
9
Group Designs

• Within-Subjects Designs
• Between-Subjects Designs
• independent and dependent variables
• random assignment
• quasi-experimental designs

10
Evaluating Behavior Change

• Follow-Up Assessment
• Change behavior that is significant to the
  individuals functioning
• Cost-Benefit Analysis