In order to examine the possible effects of violation of assumptions using parametric procedures, this study is an exploratory investigation into the use of parametric versus nonparametric procedures using a multiple case study design. The case study investigation guidelines outlined by Yin served as the methodology. The following univariate statistical procedures, identified as the most commonly employed procedures in the occupational therapy literature (from 1980 to the present-time), served as the basis of the investigation: (1) independent t-test; (2) paired t-test; (3) one factor analysis of variance; (4) Pearson product moment correlation; and (5) regression. In each case investigated, meaningful patterns or characteristics of the data emerged which could aid interpretation regardless of class of data analysis procedure (parametric versus nonparametric) employed. Further, information on distributional characteristics of variables as revealed by exploratory data analysis compiled from research investigation over time served to define characteristics of variables studied in occupational therapy clinical research. Thus, it is recommended that occupational therapy clinical research include exploratory data analysis as a component for published research. Four pages of references and a discussion of the case study guidelines are appended. (PN)