There is a strong correlation between stress and susceptibility to colds. This means that
A) stress must directly cause susceptibility to colds.
B) a high susceptibility to colds must directly cause stress.
C) people with high stress must come into contact with more cold viruses.
D) stress might or might not affect susceptibility to colds.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

While there is a strong correlation between stress and susceptibility to colds, correlation does not necessarily equal causation. Therefore, it cannot be concluded that stress directly causes susceptibility to colds or that a high susceptibility to colds directly causes stress. It is possible that stress may affect the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to catching colds, but this is not fully understood or proven. Other factors, such as exposure to cold viruses, also play a role in susceptibility to colds. Thus, the best choice is D - stress might or might not affect susceptibility to colds.

There Is a Strong Correlation Between Stress and Susceptibility to Colds