When matching is used to assign subjects to an experimental and a comparison group, the resulting research design is:
A) Equivalent to when random assignment is used
B) Weakened if it is combined with random assignment
C) Superior to assignment on the basis of chance
D) Weakened by the possibility of additional differences between the groups

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Matching attempts to pair subjects in experimental and comparison groups based on certain characteristics to ensure the groups are equivalent on those characteristics. However, this process can inadvertently introduce or fail to control for other differences between the groups, potentially weakening the research design.

When Matching Is Used to Assign Subjects to an Experimental