One of the advantages of conducting a longitudinal study instead of a cross-sectional study is that:

A) it shows that the independent variable precedes and predicts changes in the dependent variable over time.
B) it produces results that are almost always generalizable to the larger population.
C) it is often inexpensive and the least time consuming of all research designs.
D) it rarely suffers from the third variable problem and can accurately separate causes from consequences.

Question

Johane Nieuwoudt · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : A, Explanation :  Longitudinal studies follow participants over time, allowing researchers to observe how changes in the independent variable predict changes in the dependent variable. This allows for stronger conclusions about cause and effect relationships compared to cross-sectional studies, which only examine variables at a single point in time. Longitudinal studies also allow for the examination of individual differences in the patterns and trajectories of change, which can provide important insights into the development of social, emotional, and cognitive processes.

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