There Are Arguments for and Against the Use of Statistical

question 45

Multiple Choice

There are arguments for and against the use of statistical data analysis with single-case designs. Which of the following statements summarizes the case against statistical analysis?

• A) Visual inspection of data has been shown to be sufficiently reliable, and is usually easier to perform than the complicated tests needed to analyze single-case data.
• B) Statistical analysis does not reveal whether the treatment is of practical use, and may actually disguise the fact that the treatment works well for some people and for whom.
• C) Statistical analysis favor a conservative approach and therefore may not allow us to detect meaningful changes in behavior. This approach may lead us to reject treatments that may be useful to large groups of people.
• D) There are no statistical analyses suited to the time-series kind of behavior generated by single-case designs, nor are there valid means of interpreting what few statistical tests are available.

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Definitions:

Systematic Thinking

Approaches problems in a rational and analytical fashion.

Programmed Decisions

Decisions that are made using a rule, procedure, or quantitative method that have been developed for recurring problems or situations.

Lack-Of-Participation Error

Lack-of-participation error occurs when important people are excluded from the decision-making process.

Rational Decision Model

A systematic, step-by-step approach to making decisions based on logical, objective analysis of data and alternatives.