Application of multiple baseline designs in behavior analytic research: Evidence for the influence of new guidelines

Abstract

The multiple baseline (MBL) design is a single-case experimental design that has both research and applied utility. Although the concurrent and nonconcurrent MBL variants are valid designs, each rules out different threats to internal validity. To help clarify these differences, studies have provided guidelines for graphically depicting and distinguishing between concurrent and nonconcurrent MBLs. This study assessed the extent to which data-presentation guidelines have been adopted by examining single-case experimental design studies published in 3 behavior-analytic journals from 2000 to 2015. Results suggest that data-depiction guidelines have increased correct identification of concurrent multiple baseline designs but also indicate that these guidelines have not been universally adopted.