Single-Case Research Methods for the Behavioral and Health Sciences

This text ntroduces readers to the history, epistemology, and strategies of single-case research design. The authors offer concrete information on how to observe, measure, and interpret change in relevant outcome variables and how to design strategies that promote causal inferences.

Key Features

• Includes case vignettes on specific single-case designs
• Describes clinical and applied case studies
• Draws on multiple examples of single-case designs from published journals across a wide range of disciplines
• Covers recent developments in applied research, including meta-analysis and the distinction between statistical and clinical significance
• Provides pedagogical tools to help readers master the material, including a glossary, interim summaries, end-of-chapter review questions, and activities that encourage active processing of material.

Intended Audience

This text is intended for students and practitioners in a variety of disciplines―including psychology, nursing, physical therapy, and occupational therapy―who are increasingly called upon to document the effectiveness of interventions.

Dr. Morgan earned his degree in experimental psychology with an emphasis in human operant behavior from Auburn University. He maintains interests in behavioral epistemology, single-subject research design and the impact of human behavior on the natural environment. His recent textbooks include Essentials of Learning and Cognition (Waveland Press, 2007) and Single-Case Research Methods for the Behavioral and Health Sciences (Sage, 2009) coauthored with Robin K. Morgan of Indiana University Southeast. Dr. Morgan has contributed numerous articles in professional journals, including The Behavior Analyst, The Psychological Record and Teaching of Psychology.


Robin K. Morgan obtained her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Auburn University in 1988. She is currently a professor at Indiana University Southeast in New Albany, IN, where she has been teaching since 1988. Dr. Morgan has worked in both inpatient psychiatric and medical settings as well as outpatient settings, including private practice, with child, adolescent, and adult clients running the gamut of psychological disorders. Dr. Morgan has published articles in several journals, and has been recognized for her excellence in teaching. She is the author of the text, Case Studies in Child and Adolescent Psychopathology, published by Prentice Hall in 1999 and has written and edited several additional books related to college teaching.