Using single-subject methodology to investigate psychiatric treatments in systemic lupus erythematosus

Psychiatric problems are frequently experienced by persons with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Some researchers and clinicians presume that these psychiatric problems are a direct manifestation of the disease, while others suggest that psychosocial and environmental factors have greater etiological significance. Our lack of knowledge regarding the etiology of psychiatric problems in this population is a serious limitation to selecting treatment approaches or to understanding treatment efficacy. Studies that employ group research designs to investigate the etiology or treatment of psychiatric problems in patients with SLE are inherently limited. Therefore, this article provides a general introduction to single-subject methodology and illustrates some potential applications to investigating psychiatric treatments in persons with SLE.