Luis being a college student has undertaken some research. The results have shown that people who buy expensive cars are less likely to die from a flu-related illness during the following year than those who do not buy. However, recent research has shown that people who buy expensive cars are also less likely to die from any cause during the following year than those who don't buy. Are there any confounding variables that make it difficult to justify a cause-and-effect conclusion?
A) No, there are no confounding variables that make it difficult to justify a cause-and-effect conclusion.
B) Genetic inheritance of a flu-related illness is the only confounding variable.
C) General health, home environment, socio-economic status, or wealth - are examples of possible confounding variables.
D) Addiction to buying expensive cars is the only confounding variable.

Question

Luis being a college student has undertaken some research. The results have shown that people who buy expensive cars are less likely to die from a flu-related illness during the following year than those who do not buy. However, recent research has shown that people who buy expensive cars are also less likely to die from any cause during the following year than those who don't buy. Are there any confounding variables that make it difficult to justify a cause-and-effect conclusion? ​
A) No, there are no confounding variables that make it difficult to justify a cause-and-effect conclusion.
B) Genetic inheritance of a flu-related illness is the only confounding variable.
C) General health, home environment, socio-economic status, or wealth - are examples of possible confounding variables.
D) Addiction to buying expensive cars is the only confounding variable.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

There are confounding variables that could be contributing to the observed correlation between buying expensive cars and reduced mortality rates. Factors such as general health, home environment, socio-economic status, or wealth could all impact both the ability to purchase an expensive car and one's overall health outcomes. Without controlling for these factors, it is difficult to establish a cause-and-effect relationship between buying an expensive car and reduced mortality rates.

Luis Being a College Student Has Undertaken Some Research