UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Cross sectional studies examine a phenomenon at one point or short span of time, using data from different individuals or groups. They provide a snapshot of characteristics, opinions or behaviors in a population. Such designs are common in survey research when the primary interest is in describing current status rather than change over time.

Option A:
Option A describes longitudinal design, where the same participants are followed and measured across multiple time points to study change. This is conceptually distinct from cross sectional design.

Option B:
Option B correctly identifies cross sectional research as involving a single time of measurement across different participants. It captures the snapshot nature and the absence of repeated measures on the same individuals.

Option C:
Option C characterizes experimental research, which focuses on manipulation and control to infer causality, not merely on time dimension.

Option D:
Option D suggests a purely qualitative case study emphasis, which can be cross sectional or longitudinal but is not inherent to the definition of cross sectional design.