Glossary / Lexicon

Multiple baseline design is defined as a single-case experimental design in which measures are taken on two (2) or more behaviors or on a single behavior in two (2) or more situations. A particular intervention is introduced for each at different times. If behavior change is coincident with each introduction, this is strong evidence the intervention caused the change. Moreover, Multiple baseline design refers to a design used when it is not possible or ethical to employ a treatment reversal period. In this design, baselines are established for two (2) or more behaviors, treatment is introduced for one behavior, and then treatment is introduced for the second behavior as well. By observing changes in each behavior from period to period, one may draw conclusions about the effectiveness of the treatments.