Causal hypotheses can be tested only when the researcher has the ability to ____ the main variables of the study.
A) predict or assess
B) control or manipulate
C) identify or understand
D) estimate or measure

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In order to test causal hypotheses, the researcher must have the ability to control or manipulate the main variables of the study. This means that they can either manipulate one variable and observe the effect on another, or they can control for certain variables and observe the effect of one variable on another. Without this ability, it is difficult to establish a cause-and-effect relationship between variables. While predicting, assessing, identifying, and understanding variables are all important steps in conducting research, they do not necessarily enable the testing of causal hypotheses. Likewise, estimating or measuring variables can be important in gathering data for a study, but it does not necessarily indicate the ability to manipulate or control variables.

Causal Hypotheses Can Be Tested Only When the Researcher Has