A research team is studying the effect of rape on the development of a mood disorder. Included in the study are two groups: (1) women, ages 19 to 29, who filed rape charges against an attacker and (2) women, ages 19 to 29, who self-reported that they have never been raped. The women from both groups were from upper middle-class families. Which of the following is the MOST important factor in creating a matched control?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most important factor in creating a matched control for this study is the woman's age at the time of rape. This ensures that the developmental stage and potential impact on mental health are comparable between the groups. Factors like the sex of the attacker, whether the attacker was convicted, and the time of day when the attack occurred are less directly relevant to the psychological impact and development of mood disorders following the trauma.

A Research Team Is Studying the Effect of Rape on the Development