The fact that differences between age groups in a cross-sectional study may result as easily from chance environmental events as from significant developmental processes is
A) an example of the sample constancy problem.
B) a major problem of longitudinal studies.
C) a problem with a random sample from a population of interest.
D) a major disadvantage of the cross-sectional approach.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fact that differences between age groups in a cross-sectional study may result as easily from chance environmental events as from significant developmental processes is a major disadvantage of the cross-sectional approach. This is because cross-sectional studies only measure individuals at a specific point in time, making it difficult to control for environmental factors that may affect different age groups differently. Alternatively, longitudinal studies follow individuals over time, providing a better understanding of developmental processes and allowing researchers to control for environmental factors.

The Fact That Differences Between Age Groups in a Cross-Sectional