Collecting subjective and rating scale data within a single case study design: cognitive behavioural therapy for a...

This paper reports on a case study for a person with a diagnosis of schizophrenia using cognitive behavioural therapy. A range of scales was used to detect treatment effect and outcome. No significant clinical changes were detected using the scales, which are routinely used with such interventions. Subjective data were also collected in the form of a narrative, with the recipient of therapy identifying outcomes, which are not reflected within the rating scale data. Implications for practice include valuing the subjective experience reported by service users. The paper concludes that rating scale data and subjective accounts should be seen on an equal footing when evaluating specific therapeutic interventions.