Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Major phases involved in a case study are given below. Arrange them in order from beginning to end.
A. Diagnosis and identification of causal factors.
B. Recognition and determination of the status of the phenomenon.
C. Application of remedial measures.
D. Collection of data, examination, and history of the given phenomenon.
E. Follow-up program to determine the effectiveness of the treatment applied.

Correct option is A

A case study follows a structured approach involving multiple phases, from initial recognition of the problem to follow-up assessment. The correct sequence is:

B - Recognition and determination of the status of the phenomenon (First Step)
Identifying and defining the problem or phenomenon under study.
Example: A psychologist notices a pattern of anxiety symptoms in a client.

D - Collection of data, examination, and history of the given phenomenon (Second Step)
Gathering relevant information through observations, interviews, and records.
Example: A detailed history of the patient’s background and symptoms is collected.

A - Diagnosis and identification of causal factors (Third Step)
Analyzing the data to determine the underlying causes and contributing factors.
Example: Identifying trauma as a major factor in the patient's anxiety.

C - Application of remedial measures (Fourth Step)
Implementing treatment, intervention, or corrective measures.
Example: Introducing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety management.

E - Follow-up program to determine the effectiveness of the treatment applied (Final Step)
Monitoring progress and assessing whether the intervention was successful.
Example: Evaluating improvements in anxiety symptoms after therapy.
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Information Booster:
-Case studies provide in-depth analysis of an individual, group, or phenomenon.
-Sources of data include interviews, observations, documents, and tests.
-Single-case vs. multiple-case studies: Single-case focuses on one subject, while multiple-case compares different subjects.
-Triangulation (using multiple sources of evidence) enhances the reliability of case studies.

Collective (Multiple) Case Study
-Involves multiple cases to compare and find common patterns.
-Example: Studying five different startups to understand factors influencing business success.

Longitudinal Case Study
-Observes a case over an extended period to track changes and development.
-Example: Following a group of students from childhood to adulthood to study personality changes.