In a hypothetical cross-sectional study,marriage was found to be strongly associated with increased levels of happiness.Authors concluded that marriage was a cause of happiness.However,a reviewer of this study argued that because it is a cross-sectional study,it could not be determined whether marriage caused happiness or happiness caused marriage.What criterion of causal relationships was not met in the study according to the reviewer?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A temporal relationship cannot be assessed in a cross-sectional study; therefore it is not possible to assess whether marriage leads to happiness or happy people are more likely to get married.This criterion has to be met to establish causality.

In a Hypothetical Cross-Sectional Study,marriage Was Found to Be Strongly