Figure 9.2 shows the results from a comparison of means, using occupational prestige (PRESTG80) as the dependent variable and respondents' racial-ethnic group (RACEHISP) as the independent variable. PRESTG80 is measured on a scale of 17 to 86, with higher scores representing higher levels of prestige.
-The right-most column of the table shows that, for Black respondents, the "Row Total" is 40.46. Which of the following sentences best describes the meaning of this number?
A) From 2000 to 2010, the average occupational prestige score for Black respondents was 40.46.
B) From 2000 to 2010, the average occupational prestige of Black respondents was 40.46 units lower than the average occupational prestige of white respondents.
C) From 2000 to 2010, approximately 40.46% of Black respondents were working in jobs that had high levels of occupational prestige.
D) From 2000 to 2010, approximately 40.46% of Black respondents were working in jobs that had low levels of occupational prestige.

Question

Figure 9.2 shows the results from a comparison of means, using occupational prestige (PRESTG80) as the dependent variable and respondents' racial-ethnic group (RACEHISP) as the independent variable. PRESTG80 is measured on a scale of 17 to 86, with higher scores representing higher levels of prestige.
-The right-most column of the table shows that, for Black respondents, the "Row Total" is 40.46. Which of the following sentences best describes the meaning of this number?
A) From 2000 to 2010, the average occupational prestige score for Black respondents was 40.46. 
B) From 2000 to 2010, the average occupational prestige of Black respondents was 40.46 units lower than the average occupational prestige of white respondents. 
C) From 2000 to 2010, approximately 40.46% of Black respondents were working in jobs that had high levels of occupational prestige. 
D) From 2000 to 2010, approximately 40.46% of Black respondents were working in jobs that had low levels of occupational prestige.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct interpretation of the "Row Total" value of 40.46 for Black respondents in Figure 9.2, which shows the results from a comparison of means using occupational prestige (PRESTG80) as the dependent variable and respondents' racial-ethnic group (RACEHISP) as the independent variable, is:
a. From 2000 to 2010, the average occupational prestige score for Black respondents was 40.46.
This sentence indicates that the number 40.46 represents the mean or average score of occupational prestige for Black respondents during the time period from 2000 to 2010. Occupational prestige scores are measured on a scale from 17 to 86, with higher scores indicating higher levels of occupational prestige. Therefore, the "Row Total" of 40.46 is the average score for Black respondents, reflecting their overall occupational prestige level within the context of the study. It does not indicate a comparison to another group, a percentage of respondents in high or low prestige jobs, or a difference in prestige units.

Figure 92 Shows the Results from a Comparison of Means, Using