Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

In a single-subject design, what is referred to as the time period when no treatment is applied?

1. Independent event

2. Maturation

3. Baseline

4. Pretest

The correct answer is: Baseline

In a single-subject design, the time period when no treatment is applied is referred to as the baseline. This phase is critical because it establishes a starting point against which any subsequent changes or effects of the treatment can be measured. By observing the subject's behavior, symptoms, or other relevant metrics during the baseline phase, practitioners can better understand the typical patterns before any intervention. This helps in identifying whether any observed changes after the treatment can be attributed specifically to the intervention itself. The other concepts mentioned—independent event, maturation, and pretest—do not accurately describe this phase. An independent event is typically associated with probability theory rather than experimental design. Maturation refers to changes that occur within subjects over time as they grow or develop, which is not directly related to the time without treatment. A pretest usually involves assessments conducted before any treatment is implemented, but it is distinct from the baseline measure that focuses solely on natural, untreated behavior.