Question
Use the Types of Observational Studies flow chart interactive to answer the following question. A sociologist conducts a study of the number of single parents between the years of 2000 and 2015. What type of study is that? Choose the correct answer below. A. Cross-sectional B. Prospective C. Retrospective D. None of the above
Ask by Horton Gray. in the United States
Jan 11,2025
Upstudy AI Solution
Tutor-Verified Answer
Answer
The study is **retrospective**.
Solution
The study described involves analyzing data on the number of single parents over a period spanning from the year 2000 to 2015. Here's how the options break down:
- **A. Cross-sectional:** This type of study examines data at a single point in time, rather than over an extended period.
- **B. Prospective:** This involves following subjects forward in time from the present into the future.
- **C. Retrospective:** This type of study looks back at existing data over a specified period in the past.
- **D. None of the above:** This would apply if none of the other options fit the study, which is not the case here.
Since the study analyzes data from the past (2000 to 2015), it **retrospectively** examines existing information.
**Answer:**
C. Retrospective
Answered by UpStudy AI and reviewed by a Professional Tutor
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Beyond the Answer
In this case, the sociologist is looking back at data from the years 2000 to 2015. Since the study involves examining past data to understand trends over time, it is classified as a retrospective study. Retrospective studies analyze historical data to draw conclusions about current or future scenarios. So, the correct answer is C. Retrospective! Now, that you’re clear on that, let’s consider how these types of studies can influence the understanding of trends in social demographics, like single parenting, over time.