The Single-Case Reporting Guideline In BEhavioural Interventions (SCRIBE) 2016: Explanation and elaboration.

Abstract

Single-case experimental design (SCED) studies in the behavioral sciences literature are not only common, but their proportion has also increased over past decades. Moreover, methodological complexity of SCEDs and sophistication in the techniques used to analyze SCED data has increased apace. Yet recent reviews of the behavioral sciences literature have shown that reporting of SCED research is highly variable and often incomplete. Explicit, precise and transparent reporting is crucial not only for critical evaluation of the study methodology and conclusions, but also to facilitate exact replication of investigations, and ascertain applicability and possible generality of results. Accordingly, we developed the SCRIBE 2016 (Single-Case Reporting guideline In BEhavioural interventions) by a consensus process by experts in SCED methodology and research in the behavioral sciences, as well as experts in reporting guideline development. The SCRIBE 2016 Explanation and Elaboration article describes a set of 26 items to guide and structure the reporting of SCED research. A rationale and minimum reporting standards that stipulate what needs to be reported are provided for each item. In addition, examples of adequate and clear reporting drawn from the literature are included for each item. It is recommended that the SCRIBE 2016 Explanation and Elaboration article is used in conjunction with the complementary SCRIBE 2016 Statement (Tate et al., 2016) by authors preparing manuscripts for publication and journal reviewers and editors considering manuscripts for publication.