Final answer:
Two-tailed test a two-tailed test is a statistical method that assesses the likelihood of a relationship or difference between groups without assuming a specific direction for the effect being studied. It allows for a more comprehensive examination of data by considering deviations in both directions from the expected outcome.
Explanation:
Two-tailed test The type of test being referred to in the options is a two-tailed test. This type of test involves examining both ends of a probability distribution curve to determine whether a relationship exists between variables or if a particular result is significant. In a two-tailed test, the null hypothesis is tested against an alternative hypothesis without specifying the direction of the effect.
This means that the researcher is interested in determining if there is a significant difference between groups or conditions, regardless of the direction of that difference. The critical region for rejection of the null hypothesis is split between both ends of the distribution curve, allowing for the detection of differences in either direction from the expected value. It is commonly used when there is no specific expectation or when exploring if a relationship exists without presuming its nature.
In summary, a two-tailed test is a statistical method that assesses the likelihood of a relationship or difference between groups without assuming a specific direction for the effect being studied. It allows for a more comprehensive examination of data by considering deviations in both directions from the expected outcome.