Which of the following is a limitation of cross-sectional design?

The limitation of cross-sectional design highlighted in the correct answer pertains to its inability to identify changes over time. Cross-sectional studies capture data at a single point in time, providing a snapshot of a particular population or phenomenon. This means that while they can effectively illustrate associations between variables at that moment, they do not track how these variables may evolve or change in response to various factors over time. Consequently, researchers are unable to determine causality or the direction of relationships between variables since the design does not account for temporal changes.

In contrast to longitudinal studies, which involve repeated observations of the same subjects over a period of time, cross-sectional studies lack this temporal dimension. Therefore, while they can generate useful descriptive information, their design does not offer insights into trends or dynamics, which is a key aspect of understanding behaviors and outcomes in the field of criminal justice research.