Chapter 12 deals with research that assesses changes over time. Note that many d
Chapter 12 deals with research that assesses changes over time. Note that many developmental researchers look for changes over time as well as differences between ages. The type of design one selects depends on the research question that you are asking. Money is also an issue. Remember that Terman’s study began in 1921 and is still continuing on today (and will continue till all participants are deceased). That commitment involves not only dedicating one’s entire career to a study but also considerable fiscal resources as well.
PART A: Read the following research scenario/example, and then respond to the questions below:
Dr. Cardenas studied political attitudes among different groups of 20-, 40-, and 60-year-olds. Political attitudes were found to be most conservative in the age-60 group and least conservative in the age-20 group.
1. Would you conclude that people become more politically conservative as they get older? Why or why not?
2. Propose one alternative way of studying this topic.
3. Come up with a research question that a developmental psychologist might want to investigate. The question should involve assessing some change over time. Identify your research question and explain which type of design you would use and why.
PART B: Reflecting on your own research
4. What was the most challenging aspect of the research proposal process for you? Explain. Also, how did you address/resolve that challenge (or if you didn’t resolve it, why not)?
5. What was the most rewarding aspect of the research proposal process and why? Explain.