Most Developmental Psychology Studies Use Either Longitudinal or Cross-Sectional Research

question 24

Essay

Most developmental psychology studies use either longitudinal or cross-sectional research designs. Describe how a developmental psychologist could use a longitudinal design to study changes in fluid and crystallized intelligence as adults age. Then describe a similar cross-sectional study. Based on what you read about longitudinal and cross-sectional studies in Chapter 2 (How Psychologists Do Research), is it possible that the cross-sectional and longitudinal studies you propose could find conflicting results? If so, explain how.

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Definitions:

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

A complex disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that can't be explained by any underlying medical condition and is not relieved by rest.

Low-Grade Fever

A mild elevation in body temperature, usually indicative of the body's response to infection or illness.

Forgetfulness

The tendency or condition of being prone to forget or failing to remember information, personal experiences, or tasks.

Unexplainable Muscle Weakness

Muscular weakness without an identifiable cause despite extensive evaluation, often leading to further diagnostic investigations.