Cross sectional research shows that older adults are mentally healthier than are younger adults. What is one way to interpret this finding?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The between-group difference may represent a cohort effect, which means that the differences observed between younger and older adults may be due to the time period in which they were born and grew up. For example, older adults may have experienced more stability and social support during their formative years, which could have contributed to their better mental health compared to younger adults who may have experienced more economic, political, and social changes and stressors. Other explanations (e.g., access to care, education, culture) do not fully explain the consistent finding that older adults are mentally healthier than younger adults.

Cross Sectional Research Shows That Older Adults Are Mentally Healthier