After controlling for Z,the partial correlation coefficient is .78.The bivariate Pearson's r between X and Y was only .51.What should the researcher do next?
A)Use multiple regression techniques to investigate this relationship further.
B)Halt the investigation since these results are mathematically impossible.
C)Conclude that the relationship between Z and Y is direct.
D)Conclude that the relationship between Z and Y is spurious.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The researcher should use multiple regression techniques to investigate this relationship further since a strong partial correlation coefficient between X and Y after controlling for Z suggests that Z is a confounding variable. Multiple regression analysis can help to control for the effects of confounding variables and examine the unique contribution of each predictor variable on the outcome variable. Therefore, the researcher should investigate the relationship between X, Y, and Z using multiple regression analysis to better understand the nature of their relationship.

After Controlling for Z,the Partial Correlation Coefficient Is