A source of spuriousness variable:
A) is the same as a conditional variable
B) is viewed as possibly affecting the independent variable
C) is viewed as possibly affecting the dependent variable
D) is one that may affect both the dependent and independent variables

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A source of spuriousness refers to a variable that affects both the dependent and independent variables, leading to a false correlation or relationship between them. It is not the same as a conditional variable, which is included in the analysis as a control variable to reduce the impact of confounding variables. Spuriousness can also affect the independent variable, as it may be wrongly attributed as an explanatory factor when in fact it is not. However, it is primarily viewed as affecting the dependent variable, as it may inflate or deflate the apparent effect of the independent variable on it.

A Source of Spuriousness Variable