When evaluating a study claiming causal relationships, what element would you focus on to assess its internal validity?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the factors to consider when evaluating the internal validity of a study that claims to show causal relationships. It provides multiple choices related to research methodology.
Answer
The use of control groups and randomization.
The use of control groups and randomization is a key element to focus on when assessing internal validity in studies claiming causal relationships.
Answer for screen readers
The use of control groups and randomization is a key element to focus on when assessing internal validity in studies claiming causal relationships.
More Information
Internal validity is strengthened by using control groups and randomization to ensure that the independent variable is the true cause of changes in the dependent variable.
Tips
A common mistake is overlooking the importance of randomization in controlling for confounding variables.