A Systematic Approach to Explore the Rigor of Applied Behavioral Pharmacology Research

AbstractApplied behavioral pharmacology explores how drugs may influence problem behavior in persons with intellectual and developmental disability (IDD). A comprehensive review was conducted featuring single-case experimental designs in the domain of applied behavioral pharmacology to evaluate and report on study quality. Studies included in the review featured participants with a diagnosis of IDD, with problem behavior as the intervention target, and who were receiving psychotropic medications to address problem behavior. Fifty-five articles met criteria and were scored using a 20-item literature-informed Quality Indicator Checklist. Total checklist scores ranged between 32 and 81% which suggest room for improvement regarding the methodological rigor of research in this domain. Barriers and possible solutions to improving study quality are discussed.
Source: Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders - Category: Child Development Source Type: research