After controlling for Z, a researcher finds evidence of a spurious relationship between X and Y. What step should be taken next?
A) Z should become the new independent variable.
B) Z should become the new dependent variable.
C) Z should be disregarded and a new control variable should be selected.
D) Z should be disregarded and a new independent variable should be selected.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a researcher finds evidence of a spurious relationship between X and Y after controlling for Z, it indicates that Z is the actual cause affecting both X and Y. Therefore, making Z the new independent variable is a logical next step to understand its influence on the dependent variable (previously thought to be influenced directly by X).

After Controlling for Z, a Researcher Finds Evidence of a Spurious