Which of the following is a characteristic of case study designs in music therapy?

Case study designs in music therapy are characterized by their focus on in-depth analysis of an individual or a small group over a period of time. This approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of how therapy affects clients, particularly regarding specific conditions or situations. By utilizing a case study design, music therapists can gather detailed qualitative data, exploring the nuances of each client's experiences and outcomes. This method supports the evaluation of how effective therapy is and how it evolves, offering insights into the therapy process from beginning to end. This effectiveness determination is crucial for tailoring therapeutic approaches to meet individual needs and understanding the impacts of music therapy over time.

While longitudinal studies can be related to case studies, they are not strictly a defining feature, nor do case studies require random sampling or strictly focus on group data, which would be more aligned with quantitative research methods. The strength of a case study design is precisely its ability to provide a rich, detailed exploration of individual experiences that contribute to understanding the therapeutic process in music therapy.