A statistically significant relationship between variables within a research sample is one in which:
A) The relationship must be a true one.
B) The relationship cannot possibly have been caused by sampling error.
C) The relationship cannot have been caused by research design flaws, sampling bias, or other variables.
D) The mathematical probability that sampling error could have caused the relationship is very small.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A statistically significant relationship between variables is one in which the probability that the relationship is due to chance (sampling error) is low, typically defined as less than 5% (p < .05). Therefore, the correct answer is D, as it reflects this definition, whereas the other choices are either too restrictive (A and C) or insufficient (B) in their criteria for statistical significance.

A Statistically Significant Relationship Between Variables Within a Research Sample