For a third variable to be plausible as the explanation in an established association,which of the following must also be true?
A) The third variable must be related to both of the measured variables in the original association.
B) The third variable must be measured on the same scale as the original measured variables.
C) The third variable must be a categorical variable.
D) The third variable must have a positive relationship with the two measured variables in the original association.
E) The third variable must be spurious.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For a third variable to be plausible as the explanation in an established association, it must be related to both of the measured variables in the original association. This establishes the possibility that the third variable is actually influencing the relationship between the original variables. The other choices are not necessarily true or important for establishing a plausible explanation.

For a Third Variable to Be Plausible as the Explanation