Experimental DesignDifficulty 3/5
Which condition is required for a multiple baseline across behaviors to demonstrate experimental control?
- AThe behaviors must be functionally independent
- BThe behaviors must belong to the same response class
- CAll tiers must begin intervention simultaneously
- DBaselines must be equal in length
Show answer and rationale
Correct: A. If behaviors are functionally related, intervening on one changes the others and the untreated baselines no longer serve as controls. Tiers must start intervention in a staggered fashion, and baseline lengths are intentionally unequal.
- B — Same response class means covariation, which destroys the design logic.
- C — Simultaneous introduction removes the staggered comparison.
- D — Unequal baseline lengths are what create the staggered demonstration.