The large-scale research project known as the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) National Survey included questions pertaining
to personal health that was sent out to 7000 participants between the ages of 25 and 74. This type of study in which data is gathered at one time from groups of participants who represent different age groups is an example of what general type of research design?
Explanation: Research studies may be conducted from various purposes such as to establish causal relationship, give insight or extensive knowledge on certain subjects and others. However, Studies conducted to involve large number of participants from a population which isn't aimed at providing a definitive causal relationship between a particular variable of interest. Cross sectional studies are usually collected at a time and it involves subjects with various level of variability such as age, gender and so on. Cross sectional study are usually employed in giving a broad view or description of a particular topic.
A type of study in which data is gathered at one time from groups of participants who represent different age groups is an example of a cross-sectional study. A cross-sectional study is a type of study design that involves subjects who vary in the variable of interest such as age but have a common characteristics and observations are made at a single point in time.
In the scenario from the question, the variable of interest is most likely the effect of varying age groups on personal health. The variable of interest, age group varies but the population has a common characteristic which is that they are Americans and the study is done at a particular time and not spread out as in cohort studies. This is an example of a cross-sectional study.
