NPE Research Methods and Statistics 3

Question 1

A variable that correlates with both the independent variable and the dependent variable, potentially explaining the observed relationship, is called a:

Accepted Answer

Confounding variable

Answer

A confounding variable is an extraneous factor that correlates with both IV and DV, creating a spurious or distorted relationship between them.

Question 2

A researcher selects participants by randomly choosing every 10th name from a master list of licensed psychologists. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Systematic random sampling

Answer

Systematic random sampling selects participants at regular intervals from a list, with a random starting point.

Question 3

A correlation of r = -0.65 between social support and depression severity means:

Accepted Answer

Higher social support is associated with lower depression severity

Answer

A negative correlation indicates that as one variable increases, the other decreases, but correlation does not establish causation.

Question 4

What is the primary function of a control group in experimental research?

Accepted Answer

To provide a baseline for comparison that does not receive the experimental manipulation

Answer

The control group provides a comparison baseline, enabling researchers to isolate the effect of the independent variable by comparing outcomes to the treated group.

Question 5

Statistical power in hypothesis testing refers to:

Accepted Answer

The probability of correctly rejecting a false null hypothesis

Answer

Statistical power is the probability of detecting a true effect (rejecting a false null hypothesis) and is influenced by sample size, effect size, and alpha level.

NPE - National Psychology Exam Practice Test

NPE - National Psychology Exam Practice Test

NPE Research Methods and Statistics 3