Editorial: Journal of Pediatric Psychology statement of purpose: section on single-subject studies

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this editorial is to introduce a new special section on single-subject designs that is designed to encourage the submission of papers to the Journal of Pediatric Psychology that utilizes single-subject methodology to investigate the efficacy of treatments for improving the health, mental health, and quality of life for children and adolescents.

Methods: and Results We review the case for using single subject designs in pediatric psychology research and provide examples from the literature of the three most commonly used designs: the reversal or withdrawal, multiple baseline, and changing criterion. We also describe limitations of single subject designs.

Conclusions: We hope this new special section will re-ignite enthusiasm among clinicians and researchers for using single subject designs to advance our field, provide pilot data for larger trials, and/or further document the efficacy of psychological and medical interventions with various populations.