Dr. Sardonicus is studying the effects of aging on memory. She gives an initial test of memory to a group of 20-year-olds and a group of 40-year-olds. Then she follows both groups of participants for a period of five years, regularly giving them memory tests during that time. Which research design is Dr. Sardonicus using?

• A. Longitudinal
• B. Cross-sequential
• C. Cross-sectional
• D. Genetic-potential

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key components of the research design: Dr. Sardonicus is studying two different age groups (20-year-olds and 40-year-olds) and follows them over a period of five years, regularly testing their memory.
2. Understand the characteristics of a longitudinal study: This design involves studying the same group of participants over a long period to observe changes and developments.
3. Understand the characteristics of a cross-sectional study: This design involves comparing different groups at a single point in time to identify differences or similarities.
4. Understand the characteristics of a cross-sequential study: This design combines elements of both longitudinal and cross-sectional studies by studying several groups of different ages over time.
5. Analyze the research design used by Dr. Sardonicus: Since she is studying different age groups over a period of time, regularly testing them, this aligns with a cross-sequential design, which allows for observing changes over time while comparing different age groups.