Following the scientific discovery that a specific brain structure is significantly larger in violent individuals than in those who are nonviolent,a news headline announced: "Enlarged Brain Structure Triggers Violent Acts." The headline writer should most clearly be warned about the dangers of
A) the placebo effect.
B) regression toward the mean.
C) confusing association with causation.
D) generalizing from unrepresentative samples.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The headline writer is making the mistake of assuming that an association between a larger brain structure and violent behavior means that the brain structure causes violent acts. This is an example of confusing association with causation, as there could be other factors that contribute to both a larger brain structure and violent behavior. It is important to carefully interpret and evaluate research findings before making sweeping conclusions or causal claims.

Following the Scientific Discovery That a Specific Brain Structure Is