Michael studies developmental differences in extroversion by testing 9-, 19-, 39-, and 59-year-old subjects all at the same time. What kind of study is Michael performing?
A) a sequential study
B) a longitudinal study
C) an experimental study
D) a cross-sectional study

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Michael is studying developmental differences in extroversion by testing subjects of different ages at the same time. This is a cross-sectional study, which compares different age groups at the same point in time. A longitudinal study would follow the same subjects over time, while a sequential study would combine cross-sectional and longitudinal approaches. An experimental study involves manipulating variables to test causal relationships, which Michael is not doing in this case.

Michael Studies Developmental Differences in Extroversion by Testing 9-, 19-