An experiment designed to determine the effects of different #dosages of the independent variable being implemented. For example, one can determine what amount of reinforcement is most effective at maintaining or increasing target behaviors.
The Big Question: How much is best?
Real Life Example: How much Adderall do I need to write this blog post? If I take too little, I may never even start writing. If I take too much, I may become hyper focused on cleaning my keyboard with a toothpick. We basically use a parametric analysis to be like Goldilocks and find the bed that’s just right.
How many White Claws do I have to chug before I black out?
Clinical Example: The team is working with a school district to implement a school-wide incentive system. In doing so, the team must determine how often students may exchange their tickets for a prize that remains effective to maintain target behavior. Too infrequently (i.e., once every 2 weeks), the students may quickly lose interest and engage in other behavior because the delay is too long. Too frequently, though, the “lure” of an incentive system may lose its luster, as children have access to it every single day and are more likely to grow satiated by the system.