A scoping review of consecutive controlled case series studies

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Clinical Psychology
• Research Methodology

Background:

• The consecutive controlled case series (CCCS) methodology offers a framework for analyzing functional relations across similar cases.
• Understanding the application and trends of CCCS is crucial for advancing behavioral research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review of studies employing the CCCS methodology.
• To identify trends, gaps, and implications for the generality of behavioral procedures.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search identified 76 studies utilizing the CCCS methodology.
• Studies were analyzed based on their adherence to CCCS elements, participant characteristics, and intervention focus.

Main Results:

• Most reviewed studies were retrospective CCCS analyses incorporating key Hagopian (2020) elements.
• Studies predominantly featured child participants with autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disability.
• The assessment and treatment of challenging behaviors in clinical settings were common research areas.

Conclusions:

• The CCCS methodology is frequently applied to behavioral interventions for developmental disabilities.
• Further research is needed to address identified gaps and enhance the generalizability of findings.
• Trends indicate a focus on retrospective analyses within specialized clinical environments.