Question

Questioning students as they leave an athletic facility, a researcher asks 363 students about their dating habits. What potential sources of bias are present, if any? Select all that apply.

1) Selection bias
2) Response bias
3) Sampling bias
4) Non-response bias
5) Measurement bias

Answer 1

The potential sources of bias in this scenario include selection bias, response bias, and non-response bias. The correct options are 1, 2 and 4.

Step-by-step explanation:

The potential sources of bias in this scenario include:

1. Selection bias: This occurs when the method used to choose the sample of students is not random, resulting in a sample that is not representative of the entire student population. For example, if the researcher only questions students leaving the athletic facility during a specific time period, they may not capture the experiences of students who do not frequent the facility during that time.
2. Response bias: This refers to the tendency of respondents to answer questions in a way that aligns with social desirability or perceived expectations. For example, students may provide socially desirable responses about their dating habits, leading to inaccuracies in the data collected.
3. Non-response bias: This occurs when individuals selected for the survey choose not to participate, leading to a potential bias in the data. For example, students who are uncomfortable discussing their dating habits may choose not to respond, resulting in a biased sample.

Hence, Options 1, 2 and 4 are correct.