Research Methods in Applied Behavior Analysis

Jon S. Bailey, is Emeritus Professor of Psychology at Florida State University, Ret., where he taught graduate courses for behavior analysts. Dr. Bailey is a founding director of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board®, and he is past president of the Association of Professional Behavior Analysts.Mary R. Burch, is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst®. Dr. Burch has more than twenty-five years of experience in developmental disabilities. She has been a behavior specialist, QMRP, unit director, and consulting behavior analyst in developmental disabilities, mental health, and preschool settings.

“Research Methods in Applied Behavior Analysis, 3rd edition, provides a step-by-step guide to the frequent and complex decisions involved in behavioral research. Bailey and Burch infuse their many years of research mentorship into this text, which is as relevant to the novice researcher as it is to the doctoral student honing their skills toward independent research. Uniquely, this text offers tips on navigating the organizational systems (clinical, educational, etc.) that serve as the backbone of behavioral research. Wisdom, logic, and good science fill the pages of this helpful guide.”Tara Fahmie, PhD, Associate professor, University of Nebraska Medical Center, USA“The 3rd edition of Research Methods in Applied Behavior Analysis is a goldmine of tactics and strategies for graduate students and behavior analysts in the roles of consultant and supervisor. Bailey and Burch present a 10-step sequence that sets the course for developing, implementing, and evaluating a successful research project. Other chapters outline steps towards selecting research design, overcoming procedural barriers, and publishing findings. A model of clarity and practical advice, the book is a one-of-a-kind resource to learn fundamental behavior analysis research skills.”James K. Luiselli, EdD, Director of Clinical Development and Research, Melmark New England, Andover, MA, USA"This edition of Bailey and Burch builds upon the previous editions in delineating a clear path for conducting behavior analytic research. The application of science is the defining feature that distinguishes our field from others. This textbook guides the reader through the research process from how to formulate a question to eventual publication and dissemination. Their description of the research process, if followed, will make the research process both understandable and productive, and will most certainly benefit the students in understanding research both inside and outside our field."Thomas Zane"Bailey and Burch make the complex scientific process readily accessible to students and practitioners of all levels, covering every essential aspect of single-subject research design. The book takes a unique approach by tailoring the content to three targeted audiences -- master’s students completing their theses, doctoral students completing their dissertations, and practitioners providing consultation services to organizations and agencies. From selecting a topic of study to disseminating research findings, the authors provide clear guidelines and cogent tactics for integrating research activities into clinical practice. Their engaging writing style and copious use of interesting examples bring excitement to the research process."Dorothea C Lerman, Ph.D., BCBA-D, Professor and Program Director, Behavior Analysis Program, University of Houston, Clear Lake

• Part I: Introduction to Behavior Analysis ResearchPart II: Research Methods in Applied Behavior Analysis: Ten Steps for Successful ResearchStep 1. How to Develop a Good IdeaStep 2. How to Focus Your Research QuestionStep 3. How to Develop Your Dependent and Independent VariablesStep 4. How to Design Your Experiment Including Ecological and Social ValidityStep 5. How to Design Your Data Collection SystemsStep 6. How to Pilot Test Your Key VariablesStep 7. How to Find the Appropriate Research Design for Your StudyStep 8. How To Conduct an Ethics CheckStep 9. How To Successfully Carry Out Your Research ProjectStep 10. How To Graph and Analyze Your DataPart III: How to Evaluate Published ResearchPart IV: How to Use Applied Research Methods in Clinical and Educational SettingsPart V: How to Go Public With Your ResearchAppendix A: Generating Graphs in Numbers by Casey CopelandIndexAbout the Authors