Suppose that a therapist notices several clients with anxiety disorders also demonstrate symptoms consistent with major depressive disorder. Why should she be cautious in making the assumption that experiencing an anxiety disorder causes one to experience major depressive disorder?
A)Her observations may not be replicated by other researchers.
B)The relationship may really be in the opposite direction; having major depressive disorder causes one to experience anxiety disorders.
C)The relationship may really be the result of a third variable such as lack of personal control.
D)The observed relationship creates an untestable research question.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The therapist should be cautious in making the assumption that experiencing an anxiety disorder causes one to experience major depressive disorder because there may be a third variable that causes both disorders, such as lack of personal control. Therefore, assuming a causal relationship without considering other factors could result in a misinterpretation of the data.

Suppose That a Therapist Notices Several Clients with Anxiety Disorders