Alex, a freshman in college, wants to know how many of her dorm mates have tried marijuana, so she decides to survey everyone on her floor. Despite rumors to the contrary, the results suggest that fewer than ten percent of her classmates have tried the drug. What is the most likely explanation for her findings?
A) People being interviewed often change their answers to increase the chances that they will be viewed favorably.
B) Her dorm mates did not understand the question.
C) Alex did not calculate the findings correctly.
D) Surveys are not an acceptable means to gather new information.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most likely explanation for the finding that fewer than ten percent of her dorm mates have tried marijuana despite rumors is that survey respondents often change their answers in order to appear more socially acceptable, especially when it comes to behaviors that may be stigmatized or illegal. Therefore, it is possible that the actual percentage of dorm mates who have tried marijuana is higher than what was reported.

Alex, a Freshman in College, Wants to Know How Many