Investigating cardiovascular responses during social interactions

Measurements on cardiovascular parameters can be obtained conveniently with a number of contemporary biomedical monitors and instruments. The researcher seeks to analyze and interpret these measurements in the context of cardiovascular responses to social interactions so that social interactions can be adjusted to support the recovery of the cardiovascular patient. In contrast to large group, intersubject designs that rely on group averages, the author encourages the researcher to explore single-subject, or "small N," experimental designs to provide an intrasubject investigation based on repeated measures before, during, and after social interactions. Statistical control charts may provide an operational definition for special cause variation that the researcher wishes to detect. Some control chart precautions are addressed, especially as regard autocorrelated data. References are provided to assist the researcher in the design and exploratory use of the basic charts and modifications thereof.