Chapter 11: Understanding Statistics in Research

Grove: Understanding Nursing Research, 6th Edition

MULTIPLE CHOICE

1. Which situation will involve the use of inferential statistics?

a. A comparison of independent variables in a quasi-experimental study
b. A discussion about demographic data
c. An analysis of demographic variables of the target population
d. An examination of the differences between control and experimental group scores

ANS: D

Feedback
A Descriptive statistics are used as summary statistics to organize data and are used
to describe the sample or key variables.
B Descriptive statistics are used as summary statistics to organize data and are used
to describe the sample or key variables.
C Descriptive statistics are used as summary statistics to organize data and are used
to describe the sample or key variables.
D Inferential statistics are designed to address objectives, questions, and hypotheses
in studies to allow inference form the study sample to the target population. These
statistics are used to identify relationships, examine predictions, and determine
group differences.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Analyzing (Analysis)

REF: p. 320

2. A reviewer reads a research report and notes that the number of subjects in the original sample
is larger than the number in the final analysis. Besides attrition of subjects, this discrepancy is
likely because:
a. data from the control group are not included in the analysis.
b. essential data is missing from subjects no longer included.
c. subjects producing outlying data have been excluded from the results.
d. the final analysis usually discusses data from the experimental group only.

ANS: B

Feedback
A The analysis discusses data from both the experimental and the control groups.
B If enough data are missing for certain variables, researchers may have to exclude
analyses using these variables and may sometimes have to exclude some subjects
from data analysis.
C Outlying data are not excluded from study results; such data must be discussed.
D A final analysis will discuss data from both the experimental and control group.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 320
3. A researcher notes that 2 subjects in an experimental group had scores similar to those in the
control group, while the other 20 experimental group subjects had scores far different from
those in the control group. The researcher would consider the scores for the two subjects as:
a. control group findings.
b. outlier scores.
c. unexpected findings.
d. ungrouped participants.

ANS: B

Feedback
A Subjects who receive the experimental group intervention remain part of the
experimental group regardless of their scores.
B Subjects with extreme values that seem unlike the rest of the sample are called
outliers.
C Unexpected findings can occur with or without outliers.
D Subjects can be grouped into categories or not; the process may highlight outliers,
but would not define them.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 323

4. It is important to know the demographic variables among study subjects in order to:
a. calculate central tendency and standard deviation of study scores.
b. ensure that control and experimental subjects are different.
c. ensure that outcomes are not caused by independent variables.
d. understand how well the sample represents the target population.

ANS: D

Feedback
A Demographic variables are not used to calculate central tendency and standard
deviation of study results.
B Researchers evaluate demographic variables in experimental studies to ensure
that the groups are similar so that outcomes can be related to the independent
variables and not to population differences.
C Researchers evaluate demographic variables in experimental studies to ensure
that the groups are similar so that outcomes can be related to the independent
variables and not to population differences.
D One goal of analyzing demographic variables in a study to make sure that the
sample population is representative of the target population so that findings may
be generalized to the larger population.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 320

5. A researcher evaluates the internal consistency (reliability) a newly developed scale used in a
pilot study and notes a Cronbach alpha coefficient of space 0.72. The researcher will:
 a. compare the measure with scores from another group of subjects.
b. test the scale for validity prior to using it in another study.
c. try another measure with better reliability in another pilot study.
d. use the scale in the larger study and continue to monitor coefficient results.
ANS: D

Feedback
A It is not necessary, at this point, to compare the measure with scores from another
group of subjects.
B It is not necessary to test the scale for validity prior to using it again.
C This scale should be used and does not need to be discarded for another scale.
D A Cronbach alpha score of 0.80 to 0.90 indicates that the measure is sufficiently
reliable to use in a study, although a value of 0.70 is considered acceptable. The
researcher should use the scale with the larger group and monitor this value.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 323

6. An appropriate level of significance for nursing research is either:

a. 0.5 or 0.1.
b. 0.03 or 0.003.
c. 0.05 or 0.01.
d. 0.005 or 0.001.

ANS: C

Feedback
A 0.5 or 0.1 values are too high. The level of significance selected for most nursing
studies is 0.05. In some studies, the more rigorous level of significance of 0.01
may be chosen.
B 0.03 or 0.003 values are not generally accepted levels of significance. The level
of significance selected for most nursing studies is 0.05. In some studies, the
more rigorous level of significance of 0.01 may be chosen.
C The level of significance selected for most nursing studies is 0.05. In some
studies, the more rigorous level of significance of 0.01 may be chosen.
D 0.005 or 0.001 values would be too rigorous. The level of significance selected
for most nursing studies is 0.05. In some studies, the more rigorous level of
significance of 0.01 may be chosen.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Remembering (Knowledge)

REF: p. 325

7. To measure test-retest reliability of an instrument, a researcher may use the:

a. Cronbach alpha coefficient.
b. Fischer’s exact test.
c. Kuder-Richardson score.
d. Pearson’s correlation statistic.
 ANS: D

Feedback
A Cronbach’s alpha coefficient is used to determine reliability in a single study.
B Fischer’s exact test measures statistical significance, usually in small samples.
C The Kuder-Richardson score measures internal reliability.
D The t-test, or Pearson’s correlation statistics, may be used to determine test-retest
reliability.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Understanding (Comprehension)

REF: p. 325

8. Which describes an outlier?

a. A data point with a value outside what is predicted by other data points
b. Any data point far from the median point, but still within 2 standard deviations
from the mean.
c. A study result that is directly attributable to randomness.
d. A study score from a subject lost to attrition after the study begins.

ANS: A

Feedback
A Outliers are subjects or data points with extreme values that seem unlike the rest
of the study sample.
B Outliers may be within or outside standard deviations.
C Outliers are not directly attributable to randomness.
D Outliers are data collected from subjects in the study.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Understanding (Comprehension)

REF: p. 325

9. What is the purpose of using exploratory analysis in a research report?

a. To compare control and experimental groups
b. To develop testable hypotheses
c. To examine and describe data
d. To identify theoretical constructs

ANS: C

Feedback
A Statistical analysis is used to compare control and experimental groups.
B Statistical analysis is used to develop testable hypotheses.
C Exploratory analysis is used to examine all of the data descriptively and to
identify variation among data and whether outliers exist.
D Theoretical constructs are discussed in the theoretical framework.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Understanding (Comprehension)

REF: p. 323
10. An important goal of inferential statistical analysis is to:
a. analyze and describe data collected during a study.
b. determine whether theoretical constructs are valid.
c. generalize results from the study to the target population.
d. measure the reliability and validity of measurement tools.

ANS: C

Feedback
A Descriptive data analysis is performed to analyze and describe data collected
during a study.
B Inferential statistics are not performed to determine the validity of theoretical
constructs.
C Inferential statistical analysis is performed for the purpose of generalizing
findings from the study sample to appropriate accessible and target populations.
D Other analyses are conducted to examine the reliability and validity of
measurement tools.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Analyzing (Analysis)

REF: p. 323

11. After a clinical drug trial to measure the effects of atorvastatin administration on low-density
lipoprotein levels, which of the following conclusion statements is acceptable in the research
report?
a. Findings of clinical drug tests suggest that atorvastatin works to reduce low-density
lipoprotein levels in study subjects.
b. Results of this clinical drug trial demonstrate that atorvastatin works to reduce low-
density lipoprotein levels in all adults over age 65.
c. The negative correlation between atorvastatin administration and low-density
lipoprotein levels indicates that atorvastatin causes a decrease in LDL levels.
d. The study proved that atorvastatin decreases low-density lipoprotein levels.

ANS: A

Feedback
A Researchers can never prove things using inferential reasoning; they can never be
certain their reasoning is correct.
B Findings can never be applied to all humans.
C Correlation does not equate with causation.
D The study cannot prove that something is the case; it can only support the
likelihood.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Analyzing (Analysis)

REF: p. 323

12. In a discussion that includes the analysis of data collected during a pilot study, the researcher
discusses the relationships and differences in data sets and makes predictions based on this
analysis. The researcher will use which process?
a. descriptive analysis
 b. inferential analysis
c. reliability testing
d. validity testing

ANS: B

Feedback
A Descriptive analysis is used to examine all of the data descriptively and to
identify variation among data and whether outliers exist.
B Inferential analysis techniques focus on relationships and differences in data,
along with predictions based on the data.
C Reliability and validity testing are measures used to evaluate whether
measurement tools are effective.
D Reliability and validity testing are measures used to evaluate whether
measurement tools are effective.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Understanding (Comprehension)

REF: p. 323

13. A nurse conducts a study to evaluate the likelihood that single adolescent mothers will
breastfeed their newborn infants if they are given materials about the benefits of
breastfeeding. The results show a p value of 0.18. The nurse may conclude that:
a. the value is too low to be able to draw meaningful conclusions.
b. there is an 18% probability that this population will breastfeed their infants.
c. there is an 18% probability that this population will not breastfeed their infants.
d. there is an 82% probability that this population will breastfeed their infants

ANS: B

Feedback
A The p value does not have a required range of value to be considered relevant.
B The p value expresses the probability that an event will occur. In this case, the p
value is 0.18, or 18%, and the researcher can predict this probability based on
study results.
C The p value expresses the probability that an event will occur. In this case, the p
value is 0.18, meaning that there is an 18% chance that adolescent mothers will
breastfeed their infants.
D The p value expresses the probability that an event will occur. In this case, the p
value is 0.18, meaning that there is an 18% chance that adolescent mothers will
breastfeed their infants.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Analyzing (Analysis)

REF: p. 324

14. Which of the following is not one of the components of power analysis?
a. Effect size
b. Error type
c. Power
d. Sample size
 ANS: B

Feedback
A Cohen identified four parameters of a power analysis: the level of significance,
sample size, power, and effect size.
B Error type is not a component of power analysis.
C Cohen identified four parameters of a power analysis: the level of significance,
sample size, power, and effect size.
D Cohen identified four parameters of a power analysis: the level of significance,
sample size, power, and effect size.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Remembering (Knowledge)

REF: p. 329

15. In statistical analysis of data, the alpha value is used to:

a. describe the degree of generalizability of the findings.
b. determine the risk of a Type I error.
c. reveal whether the p value meets criteria for statistical significance.
d. speculate on the frequency distribution of study values.

ANS: C

Feedback
A The alpha value does not address generalizability of findings.
B The p value is used to calculate the probability of a Type I error.
C The alpha, or the level of statistical significance, is the probability level at which
the results of statistical analysis are judged to indicate a statistically significant
difference between the groups.
D The normal curve provides information on the frequency distribution of study
values.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Analyzing (Analysis)

REF: p. 325

16. A researcher studies the effects of a nursing intervention on a desired patient outcome and
discovers a statistically significant difference between groups receiving the intervention and
those not receiving the intervention. The researcher concludes that the intervention is
effective. This researcher has made a:
a. generalization.
b. statistical inference.
c. Type I error.
d. Type II error.

ANS: B

Feedback
A Generalizations are made when information gained from a specific instance is
generalized to the general population.
 B A statistical inference is made from the study findings obtained from a specific
sample and applied to the target population.
C A Type I error occurs when a researcher incorrectly states that something is
significant when it is not.
D A Type II error occurs when a researcher declares the null hypothesis to be true
when it is not.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Understanding (Comprehension)

REF: p. 326

17. When comparing a study with a level of significance of 0.05 with a study having a level of
significance of 0.01, the researcher knows that the study with the level of significance of 0.05
is more likely to have a:
a. correct null hypothesis.
b. generalizable finding.
c. Type I error.
d. Type II error.

ANS: C

Feedback
A A Type I error carries a greater risk of rejecting a null hypothesis when it is true,
but does not increase the likelihood of a correct null hypothesis.
B The Type I error does not affect the generalizeability of the findings.
C There is a greater risk of a Type I error with a 0.05 level of significance than with
a 0.01 level of significance.
D There is a greater risk of a Type II error with a 0.01 level of significance than with
a 0.05 level of significance.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Understanding (Comprehension)

REF: p. 326

18. When a researcher concludes that study findings are applicable to the total population, this is
an example of:
a. generalization.
b. inference.
c. probability.
d. significance.

ANS: A

Feedback
A Generalizations are made when information gained from a specific instance is
generalized to the general population.
B A statistical inference is made from the study findings obtained from a specific
sample and applied to the target population.
C Probability refers to the likelihood that a variable falls at a certain point in the
range of data scores.
D Significance is a value indicating the chance that values are from different groups
 when the value of one group is not within the range of values of another group.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 326

19. In research, the probability that any data score will be within a certain range of a mean value
is calculated based on the theory of:
a. frequency.
b. inference.
c. levels of significance.
d. the normal curve.
ANS: D

Feedback
A Frequency refers to the number of times a specific value occurs.
B A statistical inference is made from the study findings obtained from a specific
sample and applied to the target population.
C Levels of significance is a value indicating the chance that values are from
different groups when the value of one group is not within the range of values of
another group.
D A normal curve is a theoretical frequency distribution of all possible values in a
population, with a 95% probability that any value from that population will fall
within 2 standard deviations of the mean.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Analyzing (Analysis)

REF: p. 326

20. A researcher plans to apply a one-tailed test of significance when analyzing data from a study.
Which is true about using this test?
a. The researcher will be unable to predict whether differences are greater than or less
than the mean value.
b. This is a nondirectional hypothesis, so values will not have a tendency to vary in a
specific direction.
c. This may increase the possibility of a Type I error when evaluating the significance
of the findings.
d. This will decrease the possibility of a Type II error when drawing conclusions
about the data.
ANS: D

Feedback
A A one-tailed hypothesis increases a study’s power and improves the ability to
predict outcomes.
B A one-tailed test is a unidirectional hypothesis, with values tending to vary in a
specific direction.
C A one-tailed test does not increase the chance of a Type I error.
D A one-tailed hypothesis means that the data tend to vary in a certain direction.
One-tailed statistical tests are uniformly more powerful than two-tailed tests and
 decrease the possibility of a Type II error.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Analyzing (Analysis)

REF: p. 327

21. In a study to examine motivational techniques to help adolescent smokers to quit smoking, the
null hypothesis states that the intervention will have no effect on this population. The
researcher establishes a level of significance of 0.01. When analyzing the data, the researcher
concludes that there is a significant difference between subjects receiving the intervention and
those who do not. In this study, a Type I error means there is a:
a. 1% chance that the conclusion is wrong.
b. 1% chance that the conclusion is correct.
c. 99% chance that the conclusion is wrong.
d. 99% chance that the null hypothesis is correct.

ANS: A

Feedback
A Type I error occurs when the null hypothesis is rejected when it is actually
correct. A significance of 0.01 indicates a 1% chance that the null hypothesis is
correct when it is rejected.
B There is a 99% chance, in this study, that the conclusion is correct and the null
hypothesis is incorrect.
C There is a 99% chance, in this study, that the conclusion is correct and the null
hypothesis is incorrect.
D There is a 99% chance, in this study, that the conclusion is correct and the null
hypothesis is incorrect.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Analyzing (Analysis)

REF: p. 328

22. A researcher develops a study to examine the effects of Keep Yourself Safe Screening (KYSS)
on the incidence of intimate partner violence (IPV). The study level of significance is 0.05.
The null hypothesis, that KYSS will have no effect on IPV, is found to be true. When
reviewing the study for Type II errors, the reviewer understands that:
a. a level of significance of 0.01 would decrease the risk of a Type II error.
b. the level of significance does not affect the chance of a Type II error.
c. there is a 5% chance that the null hypothesis is false.
d. there is a 5% chance that the null hypothesis is true.

ANS: C

Feedback
A The risk of a Type II error increases when the level of significance is less.
B A level of significance of 0.05 indicates a 5% chance of a Type II error that
occurs when the null hypothesis regarded as true but is actually false but does not
affect the likelihood that the null hypothesis is true or false.
C A Type II error occurs when the null hypothesis is regarded as true but is actually
false. A level of significance of 0.05 indicates a 5% chance of a type II error.
 D A level of significance of 0.05 indicates a 5% chance of a Type II error that
occurs when the null hypothesis regarded as true but is actually false but does not
affect the likelihood that the null hypothesis is true or false.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Analyzing (Analysis)

REF: p. 328

23. In a data set that has a normal distribution what percent of scores will be within two standard
deviations above or below the mean?
a. 34
b. 68
c. 95
d. 99
ANS: C

Feedback
A This is not a correct statement.
B This is not a correct statement.
C In the normal curve, 95% of the scores will be within two standard deviations
above or below the mean.
D This is not a correct statement.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Remembering (Knowledge)

REF: p. 326

24. A researcher conducts a power analysis for a study in which there was no difference between
control and experimental group scores and identifies a power level of 0.75 and a level of
significance of 0.05. What will this researcher do?
a. Alter measurement methods to detect larger changes in scores
b. Conclude that the null hypothesis is true
c. Consider repeating the study using a larger sample
d. Lower the level of significance to 0.01.

ANS: C

Feedback
A Because the level of power is too low, the researcher cannot draw valid
conclusions about the data. Measurement methods that measure large changes
decrease the effect size, which decreases the power.
B The level of significance does not indicate whether the null hypothesis is true or
false, merely the probability of making an error in judging whether it is true or
false.
C The minimum acceptable power level is 0.80. To improve this, a larger sample
size may be necessary.
D Lowering the level of significance lowers the power.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 329
25. The concept of degrees of freedom refers to:
a. the level of significance for a study.
b. the standard deviation from the mean among data.
c. the variability of a given score based on other scores.
d. whether statistical analysis is one- or two-tailed.

ANS: C

Feedback
A Degrees of freedom do not directly affect the level of significance, standard
deviation, or tailedness.
B Degrees of freedom do not directly affect the level of significance, standard
deviation, or tailedness.
C Degrees of freedom involve the freedom of a score value to vary given the other
existing scores.
D Degrees of freedom do not directly affect the level of significance, standard
deviation, or tailedness.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Understanding (Comprehension)

REF: p. 329

26. The median scores of two groups participating in a study are exactly the same for a particular
variable. This suggests that the:
a. average score is the same for both groups.
b. the middle score is the same for both groups.
c. the most frequent score is the same for both groups
d. groups are very much alike in relation to the variable.
ANS: A

Feedback
A The median is a measure of central tendency and indicates the middle score of a
group, but does not indicate the variability of the scores around the mean. A
measure of dispersion is required to demonstrate the distribution of scores.
B The same median score does not mean the average score, or the mean, is the
same.
C The same median score does not mean that the most frequent, or mode, is the
same.
D The same median does not equate to sameness in other ways.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 326

27. Assuming a normal distribution, what range of numbers would include two thirds of the
scores if they ranged from 50 to 99, M = 75, and SD = 5? Between:
a. 55 and 95
b. 65 and 85
c. 68 and 82
 d. 70 and 80

ANS: D

Feedback
A This is not a correct statement.
B This is not a correct statement.
C This is not a correct statement.
D In the normal curve, 68% of scores will be within one standard deviation above or
below the mean. In the example, two thirds of scores (66%) fall between 70 and
80. The mean = 75 and the SD = 5 for this sample. It follows that scores will fall
between one standard deviation below (75 – 5 = 70) and one standard deviation
above the mean (75 + 5 = 80).

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 326

28. A researcher collects scores measuring weight among school-age children who are in an
obesity prevention program and notes that several students are morbidly obese with the
majority of students falling within or below the 85th percentile for weight. The scores from
the morbidly obese children will affect which measure of central tendency the most?
a. Mean
b. Median
c. Mode
d. All of the above are affected equally.

ANS: A

Feedback
A The mode and median are not as affected by outliers as is the mean.
B This is not a correct statement.
C This is not a correct statement.
D This is not a correct statement.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 326

29. A researcher will present demographic data about ethnicity, gender, and diagnoses about a
study population using which method?
a. Continuous frequency distribution
b. Grouped frequency distribution
c. Percentage frequency distribution
d. Ungrouped frequency distribution

ANS: D

Feedback
A Continuous data are presented using grouped data tables.
B Ungrouped frequency distribution tables are used to present categorical data, such
 as demographic data, when categories are discrete.
C A percentage distribution indicates the percentage of subjects who fall into a
category and is often used when comparing scores from findings with other data
samples.
D Ungrouped frequency distribution tables are used to present categorical data, such
as demographic data, when categories are discrete.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 330

30. A researcher wishes to present data identifying pain scores for a group of subjects using a
grouped frequency distribution table. Which is true about using this method?
a. Each group must have equivalent ranges in scores.
b. Ranges may overlap from one group to the next.
c. Some data may not fit into any group.
d. There should be no more than five groups of scores.
ANS: A

Feedback
A In grouped frequency distribution tables, each group of scores must have
equivalent ranges.
B Ranges should be discrete without overlapping so that each datum will fit into
only one group.
C The ranges must be exhaustive so that all data will fit into a group.
D There should be at least 5 and no more than 20 groups.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 330

31. When a data set has a normal distribution curve, which statement is true about the data?
a. The mean is the lowest value.
b. The median is the highest value.
c. The mode is the central value.
d. The mode, median, and mean are equal values.

ANS: D

Feedback
A This is not a correct statement.
B This is not a correct statement.
C This is not a correct statement.
D In a normal distribution curve, the mode, median, and mean are equal.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Remembering (Knowledge)

REF: p. 331

32. Which describes the mode of a data set?

a. The appropriate measure of central tendency for interval data
 b. The appropriate measure of central tendency for ordinal data
c. The exact center of scores for nominal data
d. The score value occurring with greatest frequency

ANS: D

Feedback
A The mode is the appropriate measure of central tendency for nominal data, not for
interval or ordinal data.
B The mode is the appropriate measure of central tendency for nominal data, not for
interval or ordinal data.
C The mode represents the score that occurs with greatest frequency in a data set.
D The mode represents the score that occurs with greatest frequency in a data set.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Understanding (Comprehension)

REF: p. 331

33. A researcher studying subjects who have pulmonary disease presents a data set to describe the
different conditions the subjects experience and reports the following data. Which number
represents the mode for this data set?
Asthma 4
COPD 6
Chronic bronchitis 4
Pulmonary hypertension 7
a. 4.0
b. 5.25
c. 6.5
d. 7.0

ANS: A

Feedback
A The mode is the number that occurs most frequently in a data set. In this case,
there are two groups of 4, so 4 is the mode.
B This is not a correct statement.
C This is not a correct statement.
D This is not a correct statement.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 331

34. A researcher collects the following scores on a set of ranked data. Which is the median score?
a. 2
b. 5
c. 6
d. 7
e. 10
f. 15
g. 18
 h. 21
a. 7
b. 10
c. 8.5
d. 10.5

ANS: C

Feedback
A This is not a correct statement.
B This is not a correct statement.
C The median score is the midpoint score in a data set. In an even number of scores,
the midpoint is calculated by averaging the two central scores. In this case, 7 + 10
= 17/2 = 8.5.
D This is not a correct statement.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 331

35. What is the mean value in the following set of scores?

a. 128
b. 128
c. 130
d. 135
e. 144
a. 128
b. 130
c. 133
d. 132.8

ANS: C

Feedback
A 128 is the mode.
B 130 is the median.
C The mean is the average of the scores, or the sum of all scores divided by the
number of scores.
D The mean is the average of the scores, or the sum of all scores divided by the
number of scores.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 331

36. A researcher conducts a study and calculates a mean value of 100 in a set of scores ranging
from 90 to 300. Which other measure will the researcher report when describing central
tendency in this data set?
a. Median
b. Mode
c. Range
 d. Variance

ANS: A

Feedback
A The median value is not affected by extreme scores and should also be reported.
The mean is most affected by outliers in a study. In this case, the mean value is
very close to values at one end of the scale and not toward the center, indicating
that a normal curve is not present.
B The mode will describe the most frequent score.
C The range and variability will be reported, but do not describe central tendency.
D The range and variability will be reported, but do not describe central tendency.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Analyzing (Analysis)

REF: p. 331

37. Which is true about a sample that is heterogeneous?

a. It has a wide variation in scores.
b. Scores will be clustered around the mean.
c. The measure of range will be small.
d. The standard deviation cannot be calculated.

ANS: A

Feedback
A Heterogeneous samples have a wide variation in scores.
B Such samples will have a wide standard deviation, with scores that can be far
from the mean score.
C Such samples will have a wide standard deviation, with scores that can be far
from the mean score.
D Such samples will have a wide standard deviation, with scores that can be far
from the mean score.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 331

38. A researcher is analyzing the following data set. Which value represents the range?
a. 43
b. 46
c. 46
d. 57
e. 67
f. 69
g. 78
a. 35
b. 46
c. 57
d. 58
 ANS: A

Feedback
A The range represents the difference between the lowest and the highest scores.
B 46 is the mode, or the most frequently recorded value.
C 57 is the median, or the data point in the middle of all the data when they are
placed in order.
D 58 is the mean, or the average number of all the data.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 333

39. Which is true about the measure of a data set’s range?

a. It is an average score.
b. It is calculated using central scores.
c. It is determined only for interval level data.
d. It is sensitive to outliers in a data set.

ANS: D

Feedback
A The range represents the difference between the lowest score and the highest
score and is sensitive to any outliers that may occur far from the scores clustered
in the middle.
B The range represents the difference between the lowest score and the highest
score and is sensitive to any outliers that may occur far from the scores clustered
in the middle.
C It is determined using any type of data, not just interval-level data.
D The range represents the difference between the lowest score and the highest
score and is sensitive to any outliers that may occur far from the scores clustered
in the middle.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Understanding (Comprehension)

REF: p. 333

40. Which is true about the variance for scores in a data set?
a. A larger variance value usually indicates a smaller dispersion of scores.
b. It can be calculated for nominal scores.
c. The calculated score has no absolute value.
d. The variance indicates the range of scores.

ANS: C

Feedback
A A larger variance value usually indicates a greater dispersion of values.
B Variance can only be calculated for nominal and ratio level of measurement.
C The calculated variance value has no absolute value and can be compared only
with data obtained using similar measures.
D The variance indicates the spread or dispersion of the scores, not the range.
 PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Remembering (Knowledge)
REF: p. 333

41. A researcher has calculated a variance of 9 for a data set. What is this data set’s standard
deviation?
a. 1
b. 3
c. 4
d. 5
ANS: B

Feedback
A This is not a correct statement.
B The variance is the standard deviation squared. The square root of 9 is 3.
C This is not a correct statement.
D This is not a correct statement.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 333

42. A data set is found to approximate a normal curve and has a mean of 72.5 and a standard
deviation of 10.8. In which range of numbers will 99% of the scores fall?
a. 35.8 – 112.6
b. 44.6 – 100.4
c. 51.3 – 93.7
d. 61.7 – 83.3
ANS: B

Feedback
A These numbers have a greater range than 2.58 standard deviations of the mean, so
would include more than 99% of the scores.
B In a normal curve, 99% of the scores fall within 2.58 standard deviations of the
mean, or 27.87 in each direction. 72.5 – 27.87 = 44.6; 72.5 + 27.87 = 100.4.
C 95% of the scores will fall between 2 standard deviations of the mean, or 21.17
each direction, making this range 51.3 – 93.7.
D 68% of scores will fall within one standard deviation, with a range of 61.7 – 83.3.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Analyzing (Analysis)

REF: p. 334

43. Based on study data, a researcher predicts that a population mean will fall within a specific
range of data. This is called the:
a. confidence interval.
b. range.
c. standard deviation.
d. validity measure.
 ANS: A

Feedback
A The confidence interval is the probability of including the value of the population
within an interval estimate.
B The range is the full range of all data, from the smallest to the highest number.
C Standard deviations define the variability of data.
D Validity is a measure of the extent to which the measure represents the real word
data.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 334

44. A researcher analyzes scores from two studies in which patients’ temperatures were measured
after antipyretic medications are given. One study measures temperatures in centigrade and
the other in Fahrenheit. The researcher will:
a. calculate standard deviation measures for each study using their scale values.
b. compile all data regardless of scale and calculate measures of central tendency.
c. determine a Z-score and then calculate measures of central tendency.
d. realize that studies using different measures cannot be compared.

ANS: C

Feedback
A Standard deviation measures are used to assess the range of scores within a data
set, but are not useful when analyzing data from two data sets.
B Compiling all data regardless of scale will not allow accurate comparison and
analysis of the data.
C When study results use different scales to report data, it is necessary to
standardize the scores into a more general meaning. This standardized score is a
Z-score.
D Comparing data from studies with different scales of measurement does not yield
meaningful data.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 335

45. Which is true about a Z-score?

a. It identifies the confidence interval for a group of data.
b. It is a method for calculating variance .
c. It is a standardized score used when data measures use different scales.
d. It represents the median data point in any set of data.

ANS: C

Feedback
A The Z-score does not identify the confidence interval, variance, or median.
B The Z-score does not identify the confidence interval, variance, or median.
C When study results use different scales to report data, it is necessary to
 standardize the scores into a more general meaning. This standardized score is a
Z-score.
D The Z-score does not identify the confidence interval, variance, or median.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Remembering (Knowledge)

REF: p. 335

46. A researcher presents data to examine the relationship between income and weight and uses a
scatterplot to display the results. The researcher places income level intervals along the
vertical line in the graph. The reviewer knows that:
a. data about income represent the independent variable
b. income data are presented along the X axis.
c. the plot will show whether the relationship is negative or positive.
d. weight values will occur along the Y axis.

ANS: C

Feedback
A This is correlational data; neither variable is independent.
B The Y axis is the vertical axis.
C A scatterplot may be used illustrate the relationship between variables and will
show either a negative or positive relationship.
D The Y axis is the vertical axis.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Analyzing (Analysis)

REF: p. 335

47. A researcher wishes to display scores representing the relationship between two variables.
Which will the researcher use?
a.Grouped data table
b.Pie chart
c.Scatterplots
d.Z-score
ANS: C

Feedback
A Grouped data tables and pie charts show the frequency of data.
B Grouped data tables and pie charts show the frequency of data.
C A scatterplot may be used illustrate the relationship between variables and will
show either a negative or positive relationship.
D The Z-score is a standardized score calculated to compare data when measures
use different scales.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 335

48. Which is true about a correlational analysis technique?

a. It is most desirable for small samples with homogeneous scores.
 b. It is used to determine cause and effect among sets of variables.
c. It measures the relationship among variables.
d. It usually involves comparing data from two subjects.

ANS: C

Feedback
A These techniques are most desirable with large, heterogeneous samples.
B Correlational analysis does not determine cause and effect.
C Correlational analysis techniques are used to measure the relationship among
variables.
D Correlational analysis occasionally compares data from two subjects.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Understanding (Comprehension)

REF: p. 340

49. A review of demographic data shows that mothers with higher levels of education have fewer
children. This represents which type of relationship?
a. Asymmetrical
b. Negative
c. Positive
d. Symmetrical

ANS: B

Feedback
A Asymmetry refers to skewdness in the data set.
B A negative relationship exists when higher scores of one variable are correlated to
lower scores of another
C In a positive relationship, high scores on one variable are correlated to high scores
on another variable
D Symmetrical means that the analysis given no indication of the direction of the
relationship

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Understanding (Comprehension)

REF: p. 340

50. A review of demographic data shows that mothers with higher levels of education have fewer
children. In this example, the r value is likely to be:
a. = 0.
b. <0.
c. >0.
d. not definable.
ANS: B

Feedback
A This is not a correct statement.
B A perfect negative correlation is -1. A perfect positive correlation is +1. Negative
correlations are less than zero and positive correlations are greater than zero.
 C This is not a correct statement.
D This is not a correct statement.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: pp. 340-341

51. A researcher calculates a Pearson product-moment coefficient of 0.2. The reviewer

understands that this value represents:
a. a moderate positive correlation.
b. a moderate negative correlation.
c. a weak positive correlation.
d. a weak negative correlation.

ANS: C

Feedback
A This is not a correct statement.
B This is not a correct statement.
C A r value between -0.3 and +0.3 is considered to indicate a weak relationship. A
positive number indicates a positive relationship, so this value is a weak positive
correlational value.
D This is not a correct statement.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: pp. 340-343

52. A researcher correlates self-confidence measures with obesity rates and determines an r value
of 0.8. What can the reviewer conclude when evaluating this research?
a. There is a 36% chance that variation in one score is the result of variation in the
other score
b. There is a 64% chance that variation in one score is the result of variation in the
other score
c. There is a 64% chance that variation in one score is the result of variation in
something other than the other score
d. There is a weak correlation between these two variables

ANS: B

Feedback
A This is not a correct statement.
B Explained variance is a score that is r2 which, in this case, is 0.64, or 64%. This
means that there is a 64% chance that the variation in one score affects the
variation in the other score.
C This is not a correct statement.
D This is not a correct statement.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Analyzing (Analysis)

REF: pp. 340-342
53. Clinicians now can calculate a person’s myocardial infarction risk by evaluating several
known risk factors, such as cholesterol levels and diabetes. This is possible because of:
a. bivariate correlation analysis
b. factor analysis.
c. multiple regression analysis.
d. simple linear regression analysis.
ANS: C

Feedback
A Bivariate correlation measures the extent of relationship of two variables.
B Factor analysis examines interrelationships among large numbers of variables to
identify clusters of variables most closely linked.
C Multiple regression analysis is used to analyze study data that include two or
more independent variables in order to predict the value of one variable when the
value of the independent variables is known.
D Simple linear regression analysis is used when one independent variable is used
to predict a dependent variable.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Analyzing (Analysis)

REF: p. 344

54. What is true about the chi-square test of independence?

a. Chi-square test of independence results are important calculations in most studies.
b. In a relatively small sample size, the chi-square test of independence can reduce the
chance of a Type II error.
c. The chi-square test of independence is a powerful test used to examine differences
in studies with two subjects.
d. The chi-square test of independence is used to determine whether two variables are
related or independent.
ANS: D

Feedback
A The chi-square test of independence determines whether two variables are
independent or related. This test is relatively unimportant in most studies and is
not a powerful test.
B Large sample sizes are necessary to reduce the chance of a Type II error.
C The chi-square test of independence determines whether two variables are
independent or related. This test is relatively unimportant in most studies and is
not a powerful test.
D The chi-square test of independence determines whether two variables are
independent or related. This test is relatively unimportant in most studies and is
not a powerful test.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Understanding (Comprehension)

REF: pp. 347-348

55. Which circumstance will call for the use of analysis of variance (ANOVA)?
 a. A researcher wishes to compare differences in means between four groups
b. A researcher wishes to compare the difference in variance between two groups
c. A researcher wishes to compare the difference in variance among four groups
d. A researcher wishes to compare the difference in correlation between two groups.
ANS: C

Feedback
A ANOVA does not test differences in means.
B ANOVA is used to examine differences among three or more groups.
C ANOVA is used to examine differences among three or more groups and tests for
difference in variance.
D ANOVA does not examine differences in correlation.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Understanding (Comprehension)

REF: pp. 351-352

56. A researcher conducts an experimental study on patients at different outpatient clinics,

including clinics in inner city, suburban, and rural locations. To help ensure that differences in
scores are not related to clinic location, the researcher will apply which technique?
a. ANOVA
b. ANCOVA
c. Bivariate correlation analysis
d. Factor analysis

ANS: B

Feedback
A ANOVA is used to examine differences among three or more groups and tests for
difference in variance.
B Analysis of covariance, or ANCOVA, is used to examine the effect of a treatment
apart from the effect of one or more potentially confounding variables, such as
clinic location.
C Bivariate correlation measures the extent of relationship of two variables.
D Factor analysis examines interrelationships among large numbers of variables to
identify clusters of variables most closely linked.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Applying (Application)

REF: p. 353

57. In a study comparing weight gain between small-for-gestational-age (SGA) infants who were
breastfed and SGA infants who were fed formula, researchers noted increased weight gain in
infants who were held more regardless of how they were fed. This finding is an example of a:
a. mixed result.
b. nonsignificant result.
c. serendipitous result.
d. significant result.

ANS: C
 Feedback
A Mixed results occur when some but not all predicted relationships are
demonstrated.
B Nonsignificant results are negative results, indicating only that the study failed to
find a significant relationship.
C Serendipitous, or unexpected results, are relationships found between variables
that were not hypothesized and not predicted prior to beginning the study.
D Significant results are results that statistically show a significant difference
among variables and which help to build a body of knowledge.

PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive level: Analyzing (Analysis)

REF: p. 353