Which of the following is true?
A) When regression to the mean occurs, the scores of the entire sample tend to become more similar over time.
B) When regression to the mean occurs, participants who score at the extremes of the distribution tend to become less extreme when tested a second time.
C) When regression to the mean occurs, participants whose scores are close to the mean tend to receive lower scores when tested a second time.
D) When regression to the mean occurs, participants whose scores are close to the mean tend to receive higher scores when tested a second time.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Regression to the mean is a statistical phenomenon where if a variable is extreme on its first measurement, it will tend to be closer to the average on its second measurement, and vice versa. This means participants who initially score at the extremes (either high or low) are likely to score closer to the mean upon subsequent testing, making choice B correct. Choices A, C, and D misrepresent the concept by suggesting changes in the entire sample's scores or misinterpreting how scores close to the mean are affected.

Which of the Following Is True