Suppose researchers are interested in the health effects of diet soda. It has been observed that individuals who consume diet soda are more likely to be overweight. Which of the following describes how reverse causation could explain this correlation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Reverse causation could explain the observed correlation between diet soda consumption and overweight if individuals who wish to lose weight choose to drink diet soda. In this case, being overweight would not be the cause of consuming diet soda, but rather a factor that leads individuals to choose diet soda as a potential solution to their weight loss goals. Options A and C do not provide a clear explanation of how reverse causation could explain the correlation. Option D is incorrect as not all of the options could be correct.

Suppose Researchers Are Interested in the Health Effects of Diet