Dr.Aubrey has researched media effects for the past three years and has repeatedly found that college students who report exposure to increased sexual content in the media are also more likely to report engaging in unprotected sex,having intercourse with multiple partners,and consuming alcohol or drugs prior to intercourse.What does this mean?
A) Exposure to sexual content in the media causes risky sexual behaviors.
B) College students who engage in risky sexual behaviors are drawn to sexually explicit media.
C) Exposure to sexual content in the media is correlated with risky sexual behaviors.
D) Dr.Aubrey cannot make any cause-effect statement.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Dr. Aubrey's research has found a correlation between exposure to sexual content in the media and engaging in risky sexual behaviors among college students. This does not necessarily mean that exposure to sexual content causes risky behaviors, nor does it mean that students who engage in risky behaviors seek out sexual content. Correlational studies cannot determine causality.

DrAubrey Has Researched Media Effects for the Past Three Years