What is a disadvantage of case studies in psychological research?

The correct answer highlights a significant limitation of case studies in psychological research regarding their generalizability. Case studies often focus on a single individual or a small group of individuals, which can provide in-depth insights into specific cases but may not reflect broader patterns or behaviors applicable to larger populations. Consequently, the findings from a case study might not be applicable to other individuals outside of the studied case, leading to difficulties when researchers attempt to apply these insights universally.

In contrast, the other options analyze different aspects that may or may not apply to all types of case studies. While case studies can indeed be time-consuming and costly, this is not universally true, as some could be conducted with less expenditure or time under certain circumstances. The lack of detailed insights is also inaccurate since one of the strengths of case studies is their ability to provide rich, comprehensive information about a subject. Additionally, case studies typically involve smaller sample sizes rather than large ones, which aligns with their qualitative nature and focused methodology. Thus, the correct choice is particularly relevant as it underscores the challenge of deriving general conclusions from detailed individual stories.