Methodological Issues & Strategies in Clinical Research

This edition is designed to foster greater understanding of the strengths, limitations and options of methodology in the context of contemporary research practices. The goal of the text is for students and professionals in training to improve their understanding of methodology and research practices not only in clinical psychology, but also in the field of psychology, especially in areas such as counselling, education and school psychology. The contents include articles on experimental design, principles, procedures and practices that govern research, assessment, sources of artifact and bias, methods of data analysis and interpretation, ethical issues, and publication and communication of research findings. The organization of the book conveys features of research that follow in approximate logical and often temporal order as they arise in the flow of investigation: background and underpinnings of research; methods - principles and practices; assessment; data analysis, evaluation and interpretation; special topics in clinical research; ethics in research; publication and communication of research. Although the flow and sequence of the research process underlies the selection of the articles in this book, editor Alan E. Kazdin has selected readings illustrating that the diverse facets of design are integrally related at the outset - that is, that they emerge when the study is conceived. In this second edition of "Methodological Issues and Strategies", Kazdin has included many articles that expand upon core concepts, reflect contemporary issues in research, and elaborate on the researcher's ethical responsibilities. Such additions include articles on mediators and moderators, on methods for studying the efficacy and effectiveness of psychotherapy, on making research relevant to clinical practice and policy, and on the oversight of research by committees that review scientific merit and ethical practices.