When two potentially effective independent variables are allowed to covary simultaneously,a __________ has occurred.
A) confounding
B) correlation
C) dependency
D) causal inference

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When two potentially effective independent variables are allowed to covary simultaneously, it becomes difficult to determine which variable is responsible for the observed effect. This is known as confounding, and it undermines the validity of any causal inferences that might be drawn from the data. Option B is not correct as correlation only implies that the two variables are related, but it does not imply causation. Option C is not correct as dependency implies a relationship between variables, but it does not necessarily imply that one variable is responsible for affecting the other. Option D is not correct as causal inference requires that all potential confounding variables be controlled for, which cannot be achieved if a confounding variable is present.

When Two Potentially Effective Independent Variables Are Allowed to Covary