The degree to which a researcher can generalize findings from a randomized controlled design depends on several factors, including type of design, participant selection procedures, internal and external validity, and assessment strategies. How does each

of these elements affect the generalizability of research outcomes?

What will be an ideal response?

Randomization allows each subject to have an equal chance of being selected. Selection of an analogue or clinical sample limits our conclusions/generalizations based on the nature of the sample. The diversity of the sample would also limit this. Internal validity is affected by the degree to which confounding influences are controlled. As internal validity increases, external validity may decrease because the sample may not reflect conditions in the “real world.” Finally, the expectations of both the researcher and the subjects (blindedness) may confound the results and our interpretation of them.