psyc 4101 Single-Subject Research

psyc 4101 Single-Subject Research

Overview

This week, you explored single-subject research designs. In this assignment you will design an n-of-1 or small-n study to address one of the research questions provided in the assignment instructions below.

Note: FirstPass, an AI-powered feedback tool, is available to use as you draft this assignment. The FirstPass tool for this assignment is available in the Weekly To-Do List and includes directions on how to upload your draft to receive real-time feedback before you submit for a grade.

Preparation

Download the Week 8 Assignment Template [DOCX] and select one of the scenarios below.

Choose one of the following scenarios. You will use your selected scenario to complete the questions in the Week 8 Assignment template.

Option #1. Math Anxiety

A school psychologist wants to determine whether a brief meditation exercise can reduce math anxiety in middle school students who report very high anxiety about math. The intervention consists of a 5-minute guided meditation completed immediately before math class. Anxiety will be measured using a short, validated self-report scale.

Option #2. Exercise Output

A personal trainer wants to know if yelling words of encouragement at one of their clients increases their exercise output. In their n-of-1 study, the client will be exercising on a stationary bike. The trainer will measure the client’s output using the bike’s power measurement, in watts.

Option #3. Stress Reduction

A counselor wants to know if daily journaling helps reduce stress in a client experiencing high work-related stress. The intervention involves writing in a journal for 10 minutes each evening. Stress will be measured using a brief, validated self-report stress scale.

Instructions

1. Complete the template by typing your responses directly into the designated sections.
2. If you use any sources, include them on the References page in proper APA format.
3. After drafting your initial responses:
   1. Upload your assignment to FirstPass for feedback.
   2. Use the feedback provided to revise your work.
   3. Repeat this cycle of revising and requesting feedback until you are satisfied with your assignment.
4. Submit the final version of your assignment to the assignment drop box.

Citation Requirement

• Cite at least two different references. Visit the Bachelor's in Psychology Library Research Guide for help finding resources in the Capella University Library.
• Acceptable sources for this assignment include your textbook, scholarly sources, and credible non-scholarly sources.
• Use narrative or parenthetical citations when addressing the prompts.
• Ensure that all in-text citations correspond to a full reference entry on the References page in correct APA style. Use Academic Writer for guidance in citing sources in proper APA style. See the Writing Center for more APA resources specific to your degree level.

Competencies Measured

By successfully completing this assignment, you will demonstrate your proficiency in the following course competencies and rubric criteria:

• Competency 1: Analyze psychological research studies using appropriate research methods terminology.
  • Design a single-subject research study that will address the selected scenario using research methods terminology.
• Competency 4: Explain the importance of psychological research methods for professional practice.
  • Explain why methods matter with a concrete example from your identified field.
• Competency 5: Communicate in a manner that is scholarly, professional, and consistent with expectations for professionals in the field of psychology.
  • Demonstrate good scholarly writing skills with minimal errors and appropriately integrate ethical use of AI tools.
  • Apply correct APA Style for the minimum number of in-text citations and references.