A researcher is evaluating two competing theories that both predict that practicing mindfulness will reduce physiological stress. An experiment confirms that mindfulness practice does reduce stress. Apply the logic of theory testing to determine how this result affects the status of both theories.
Question: A researcher is evaluating two competing theories that both predict that practicing mindfulness will reduce physiological stress. An experiment confirms that mindfulness practice does reduce stress. Apply the logic of theory testing to determine how this result affects the status of both theories.
Sample answer: The confirmed result strengthens both theories equally because both theories logically predict the same outcome. As a result, the researcher cannot determine which of the two theories is the correct explanation based on this single experiment.
Key points:
- Mindfulness reducing stress was predicted by both theories.
- The empirical evidence strengthens both competing theories equally.
- The experiment does not prove either theory to be uniquely correct.
Feedback: Since both theories predict the same reduction in stress, empirically confirming the hypothesis strengthens both theories equally, meaning the experiment cannot identify which specific theory is correct.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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