Experimental Control
Definition
The state of affairs in which the experimenter can make the behavior change by manipulating the independent variable, with confounds ruled out. In single-case designs it is shown by prediction, verification and replication: baseline predicts what would happen without treatment, a return to baseline verifies the prediction, and reintroducing treatment replicates the effect.
In plain language
Being able to turn the behavior change on and off by changing the treatment. That is what proves the treatment is responsible.
Example
Each time a token system is in place the behavior improves, and each time it is withdrawn the behavior returns. The team has experimental control.
Not experimental control
Behavior improves after treatment starts and never returns when treatment is paused. The effect may be real, but control has not been shown.
See also
Written from
- sidman-1960
Written from Sidman (1960). No textbook glossary consulted.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.