MFT Research Methods 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A study finds p = 0.03. The most accurate interpretation is:
- There is a 3% chance the null hypothesis is true
- If the null were true, there is a 3% probability of obtaining results this extreme or more (Correct answer)
- The alternative hypothesis is 97% likely
- The effect size is clinically significant
Correct answer: If the null were true, there is a 3% probability of obtaining results this extreme or more
The p-value is the probability of obtaining the observed (or more extreme) data assuming the null hypothesis is true.
Question 2: Which qualitative methodology involves conducting in-depth analysis of a bounded system — such as a single family or clinic — to understand it in its real-world context?
- Phenomenology
- Grounded theory
- Case study (Correct answer)
- Ethnography
Correct answer: Case study
Case study research focuses on a bounded, specific case to generate rich contextual understanding.
Question 3: A researcher wants to ensure that her interview questions cover all major aspects of clients' experience with therapy termination. She is most concerned with:
- Construct validity
- Content validity (Correct answer)
- Criterion validity
- Convergent validity
Correct answer: Content validity
Content validity ensures that an instrument adequately samples the full domain of the construct being measured.
Question 4: An MFT researcher conducts a study without informing participants that their sessions are being recorded for analysis. This violates which ethical principle?
- Beneficence
- Justice
- Informed consent (Correct answer)
- Fidelity
Correct answer: Informed consent
Recording participants without their knowledge violates informed consent, which requires disclosure of all study procedures.
Question 5: In a meta-analysis, a funnel plot is used primarily to:
- Display individual participant data across studies
- Detect potential publication bias (Correct answer)
- Calculate a weighted mean effect size
- Assess inter-rater reliability
Correct answer: Detect potential publication bias
Funnel plots display study precision against effect size; asymmetry suggests publication bias may be present.
Question 6: Which of the following is a key distinction between reliability and validity?
- A valid measure is always reliable, but a reliable measure is not always valid (Correct answer)
- A reliable measure is always valid, but a valid measure is not always reliable
- Reliability refers to accuracy while validity refers to consistency
- They are interchangeable concepts in measurement theory
Correct answer: A valid measure is always reliable, but a reliable measure is not always valid
Validity requires reliability, but reliable measurement can still miss the intended construct entirely.
Question 7: A researcher uses purposive sampling in a phenomenological study of therapist burnout. This means participants were selected because:
- They were randomly drawn from a registry
- They met specific criteria relevant to the phenomenon being studied (Correct answer)
- They volunteered in response to a public advertisement
- They were matched to a comparison group on key variables
Correct answer: They met specific criteria relevant to the phenomenon being studied
Purposive sampling deliberately selects individuals who have experience with the phenomenon under investigation.
MFT Research Methods 4
A study finds p = 0.03.
The most accurate interpretation is: