When the sample has been randomly selected, which among the following may be…
2024
When the sample has been randomly selected, which among the following may be expected in cross-sectional research designs? A. strong external validity B. weak external validity C. weak internal validity D. strong internal validity. Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:
Answer: A. Only A and C — Concept: External validity concerns how well findings generalize from a sample to the target population. Probability-based random selection improves sample…
- A.
Only A and C
- B.
Only A and D
- C.
Only B and C
- D.
Only B and D
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Concept: External validity concerns how well findings generalize from a sample to the target population. Probability-based random selection improves sample representativeness and therefore supports stronger external validity. Internal validity concerns whether a design can establish that the exposure or treatment caused the observed outcome.
Application
Random selection makes claim A the expected external-validity property.
A cross-sectional design measures variables at one point or over a short period without experimental control or temporal sequencing. Its causal control is limited, so claim C is the expected internal-validity property.
Cross-check and contrast
B reverses the usual generalizability advantage of random sampling.
D requires stronger causal control or temporal evidence than a typical cross-sectional design provides.
Therefore, the appropriate combination is A and C: strong external validity with weak internal validity.