Question

Which of the following is a disadvantage of a within-subjects design?

A) Can use a smaller sample size, smaller random error
B) Order effects, less generalizability
C) Order of conditions doesn't matter, easier
D) Have to have a large sample, increases random error

Answer 1

The disadvantage of a within-subjects design is 'Order effects, less generalizability'. Order effects can confound results, and less generalizability may occur because the same participants are used across conditions. Therefore correct option is B

Step-by-step explanation:

The disadvantage of a within-subjects design is B) Order effects, less generalizability. In within-subjects designs, the same participants are used in all treatment conditions. This can lead to order effects where the sequence in which the treatments are received affects the outcomes.

Participants may experience fatigue, practice, or carryover effects from one condition to another, which can confound the results.

Additionally, since the same participants are used in each condition, their responses may not be as diverse as a larger, more varied group, leading to less generalizability of the findings to a wider population. While within-subject designs typically allow for the use of a smaller sample size, which can reduce random error, the potential for order effects remains a significant concern that researchers need to address, typically through counterbalancing or other control methods.