Professor Grant is interested in studying the development of a sense of humor. She collects data from groups of 6-year-olds, 16-year-olds, 26-year-olds, and 46-year-olds. What type of research design is Professor Grant using?
A) cohort design
B) longitudinal design
C) behavior genetics design
D) cross-sectional design

Question

Professor Grant is interested in studying the development of a sense of humor. She collects data from groups of 6-year-olds, 16-year-olds, 26-year-olds, and 46-year-olds. What type of research design is Professor Grant using?
A) cohort design
B) longitudinal design 
C) behavior genetics design
D) cross-sectional design

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Professor Grant is using a cross-sectional design because she is collecting data from participants of different ages at the same point in time to compare and determine differences in the development of a sense of humor among the age groups. A cohort design would involve following a group of individuals born at the same time over a period of time, a longitudinal design would involve collecting data from the same individuals over an extended period of time, and a behavior genetics design would focus on genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the development of humor.

Professor Grant Is Interested in Studying the Development of a Sense