Definition
Comparative Analysis is a research method used to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of two or more interventions by applying each to the same behavior or set of behaviors in a controlled manner. The goal is to determine which intervention leads to more effective behavior change or which is better suited to a particular individual or situation. This type of analysis helps practitioners choose the most efficient, ethical, and beneficial intervention for their clients by comparing the outcomes of different treatments.
Example
A behavior analyst is working with a child who engages in disruptive classroom behaviors. The analyst wants to determine whether a token economy system or a differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO) strategy is more effective in reducing the child’s disruptive behavior. Using a comparative analysis, the analyst implements the token economy for one week and collects data on the frequency of disruptive behaviors. In the following week, they use the DRO strategy, collecting similar data. After comparing the results, the analyst observes that the DRO strategy led to a more significant reduction in disruptive behaviors, indicating that it may be the more effective intervention for this child.