A psychologist who is studying the mathematical abilities of adults finds significant differences between the scores of adults born 50 years ago, when rote learning was stressed, and those born 25 years ago, when more progressive approaches to education were popular. This is an example of a(n) _____.
A) failure of longitudinal research
B) advantage of cross-sectional research
C) cohort difference
D) intellectual decline in middle adulthood

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This is an example of a cohort difference, as the differences in scores can be attributed to the different educational approaches and experiences of the two cohorts rather than any intellectual decline or longitudinal changes. Cross-sectional research is useful for examining cohort differences but does not involve studying the same individuals over time, as in longitudinal research.

A Psychologist Who Is Studying the Mathematical Abilities of Adults