Question

c) can the results of the study can be generalized to the population? should the findings of the study be used to establish causal relationships.

○ if the sample is randomly selected and
representative of the entire population, then the
results can be generalized to the target population.
furthermore, since this study is observational, the
results cannot be used to infer causal relationships.

● if the sample is randomly selected and
representative of the entire population, then the
results can be generalized to the target population.
furthermore, since this study is experimental, the
findings cannot be used to infer causal relationships.

○ if the sample is randomly selected and
representative of the entire population, then the
results can be generalized to the target population.
furthermore, since this study is experimental, the
findings can be used to infer causal relationships.

○ if the sample is randomly selected and
representative of the entire population, then the
results can be generalized to the target population.
furthermore, since this study is observational, the
findings can be used to infer causal relationships.

Explanation:

To determine the correct option, we analyze the concepts of generalizability and causal inference:

1. Generalizability: A randomly selected and representative sample allows results to be generalized to the target population. This part is consistent across options.
2. Causal Inference:

• Observational studies observe existing groups/conditions and cannot establish causality (due to confounding variables).
• Experimental studies (with random assignment) can establish causal relationships as they control variables.

The correct logic is: If the sample is random and representative, results can be generalized. If the study is experimental, causal relationships can be inferred.

Now, evaluating the options:

• First option: Claims experimental study can't infer causality (incorrect, experimental can).
• Second option: Claims experimental study can't infer causality (incorrect).
• Third option: States sample generalizability and that experimental study can infer causality (correct).
• Fourth option: Claims observational study can infer causality (incorrect, observational can't).

Answer:

C. If the sample is randomly selected and representative of the entire population, then the results can be generalized to the target population. Furthermore, since this study is experimental, the findings can be used to infer causal relationships.