Question

A research project yielded statistically significant data indicating that first-year college students with introductory psychology scored higher on a problem-solving test than a comparable group of students not enrolled in introductory psychology. According to this statement,

A) There is a causal relationship between studying psychology and improved problem-solving skills
B) Psychology has no impact on problem-solving skills
C) The study lacks control
D) Statistical significance does not imply causation

Answer 1

Statistical significance does not imply causation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement suggests that first-year college students enrolled in introductory psychology score higher on a problem-solving test compared to a group of students not enrolled in introductory psychology. However, this does not necessarily imply a causal relationship between studying psychology and improved problem-solving skills. It simply indicates a statistical significance in the data.

Statistical significance does not imply causation (D). It is important to note that there could be other factors that contribute to the observed differences in test scores, such as the students' prior knowledge, study habits, or other variables.

Therefore, the correct answer is D) Statistical significance does not imply causation.