What term describes the participants in age groups of a study with a cross-sectional design?

What term describes the participants in age groups of a study with a cross-sectional design?

• A. Sample population
• B. Control group
• C. Cohort
• D. Experimental group

Answer: (C)

In a cross-sectional study, the term that accurately describes the participants divided into age groups is "cohort." A cohort refers to a group of individuals who share a common characteristic or experience, often defined by a specific time frame, such as age. In this context, the study examines different cohorts based on their age at a single point in time, allowing researchers to compare the outcomes or variables of interest across these distinct groups. This approach is particularly useful in identifying trends or variations in responses among different age groups without the need for longitudinal data collection. The use of cohorts helps in understanding age-related effects or differences that may arise within the study's focus. This methodology contrasts with other participant categories, such as control groups or experimental groups, which serve specific roles in experimental designs rather than observational studies like cross-sectional designs.

In a cross-sectional study, the term that accurately describes the participants divided into age groups is "cohort." A cohort refers to a group of individuals who share a common characteristic or experience, often defined by a specific time frame, such as age. In this context, the study examines different cohorts based on their age at a single point in time, allowing researchers to compare the outcomes or variables of interest across these distinct groups.

This approach is particularly useful in identifying trends or variations in responses among different age groups without the need for longitudinal data collection. The use of cohorts helps in understanding age-related effects or differences that may arise within the study's focus. This methodology contrasts with other participant categories, such as control groups or experimental groups, which serve specific roles in experimental designs rather than observational studies like cross-sectional designs.