You come across a study investigating the relationship between smartphone use and sleep quality among adolescents. The study concludes that increased smartphone use is directly linked to poorer sleep quality. However, upon examining the data sources, you find that the study relied solely on self-reported smartphone usage and sleep patterns from participants, without considering other factors such as screen brightness or usage time before bed. Which aspect of the study's data collection strategy raises concerns about the accuracy of its conclusions?
The reliance on self-reported data.
The incorrect use of statistical analysis.
The exclusion of demographic information.
The selection of participants.
1 answer
The aspect of the study's data collection strategy that raises concerns about the accuracy of its conclusions is:
The reliance on self-reported data.
Self-reported data can be biased as it depends on participants accurately recalling and honestly reporting their smartphone use and sleep patterns. This can lead to inaccuracies and may not reflect actual usage or sleep quality, thus affecting the validity of the study's conclusions.
