Which of the following is a limitation of case studies?

Case studies are in-depth investigations of a single individual, group, or event, providing rich qualitative insights into complex issues. While these studies can yield valuable information, a significant limitation is that their findings may not represent universal principles, making it difficult to generalize the results to wider populations. This limitation stems from the unique characteristics and circumstances surrounding the specific case being studied—such as individual differences, cultural context, or situational factors—that may not apply broadly.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect limitations of case studies. Statistical information is typically associated with larger-scale research methods, like surveys or experiments, rather than case studies. Generalization is not a strength of case studies due to their focus on individual cases, and while they may utilize observational data, the reliance on such data is not exclusive to case studies and does not constitute a limitation specific to them. Therefore, recognizing that case studies may not lead to conclusions that can be applied universally underscores the need to approach their findings with caution when considering broader implications.