Brady hypothesized that inadequate social support among the elderly results in a high level of chronic health problems and low morale. She tested this hypothesis by interviewing a sample of 250 community residents who were aged 65 years and older. The participants were randomly selected from a list of town residents. Brady asked a series of questions about the availability of socioemotional supports (e.g., whether the participants lived with any kin, whether they had any living children who resided within 30 minutes away, whether they belonged to any clubs or social groups, etc.). Based on responses to the various questions on social support, participants were classified in one of three groups: low social support, moderate social support, and high social support. In a 6-month follow-up interview, Brady collected information from 214 of the participants about the frequency, type, and intensity of the respondents' illnesses in the preceding 6 months, hospitalizations during that period, and their overall satisfaction with life. The data analysis revealed that participants in the low-support group had significantly more health problems and hospitalizations and lower life satisfaction ratings than those in the other two groups. Brady concluded that the availability of social supports resulted in better physical health and emotional adjustment in the elderly.

Questions

Is the design experimental, quasi-experimental, or nonexperimental?

Is the study design within-subjects or between-subjects?

Is the study design cross-sectional or longitudinal?Longitudinal

Is the study design prospective or retrospective?

Was there random assignment in this study?