Andrew R. Riley

Doctoral Dissertation Announcement

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Candidate: Andrew R. Riley

Degree of: Doctor of Philosophy

Department: Psychology

Title: Identifying Mechanisms of Change: Utilizing Single-Participant Methodology to Better Understand Behavior Therapy for Youth Depression

Committee:
Dr. Scott T. Gaynor, Chair
Dr. Amy Naugle
Dr. Amy Damashek
Dr. Linda LeBlanc

Date: Monday, July 11, 2011 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
1509 Wood Hall

Abstract:
The study’s primary goal was to provide a model for studying therapeutic mechanisms of action at the single-case level. By controlling for non-specific early responses, identifying potential mechanisms of action a priori, taking frequent measures of mechanisms and dependent variables, rigorously evaluating internal validity, and using a variety of analytic methods, a unique model for analysis of potential mediators was created. Eleven depressed youths were recruited to receive first a non-directive therapy (NDT), followed by a behavioral therapy (BT) for those still displaying high levels of symptoms. Four participants responded to NDT. Of the remaining seven, all showed some improvement during BT, but for only three was that change clearly a result of the proposed mechanisms. Future implications of these findings relevant to youth depression research are discussed.