Imagine that a study has just been published which shows a relationship between a certain nutritional supplement and a lower incidence of cold and flu. This study was based on survey data and asked people to report whether or not they used this supplement in the last four months, as well as estimate the amount of times they were ill in that same period, and the average duration associated with those illnesses. Their results show that people who take the supplement report being ill less often and/or for less time. The company selling the supplement wants to claim that this is scientific proof their product works. Why are participants in this study asked about both the number and duration of illnesses?
A)they are different ways of reducing consumer bias
B)they are different ways to operationalize the independent variable(s)
C)one relates to internal validity and the other to external validity
D)one relates to external validity and the other to internal validity
E)they are different ways to operationalize the dependent variable(s)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The number and duration of illnesses are different metrics to measure the outcome of interest (how often and how severe the cold and flu episodes are), which are aspects of the dependent variable in this study. Operationalizing the dependent variable in multiple ways can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the supplement's potential effects.

Imagine That a Study Has Just Been Published Which Shows