Essay

Explain the decision rules a researcher uses when evaluating a computed pp-value from a correlation test against a pre-set alpha level of 0.050.05. In your explanation, specify the two possible outcomes and how each affects the decision regarding the null hypothesis.

Question: Explain the decision rules a researcher uses when evaluating a computed pp-value from a correlation test against a pre-set alpha level of 0.050.05. In your explanation, specify the two possible outcomes and how each affects the decision regarding the null hypothesis.

Sample answer: To evaluate statistical significance, a researcher compares the computed pp-value of a correlation test to the pre-set alpha level of 0.050.05. There are two possible outcomes. First, if the computed pp-value is less than or equal to 0.050.05, the researcher rejects the null hypothesis, indicating that there is a statistically significant relationship between the variables. Second, if the computed pp-value is greater than 0.050.05, the researcher retains the null hypothesis, concluding that there is insufficient evidence to say a relationship exists in the population.

Key points:

  • Compare the computed pp-value directly to the pre-set alpha level of 0.050.05.
  • Reject the null hypothesis if the pp-value is less than or equal to 0.050.05, showing a significant relationship.
  • Retain the null hypothesis if the pp-value is greater than 0.050.05 because of insufficient evidence.

Rubric: Full credit is awarded if the response: 1) states that the computed pp-value is evaluated against a threshold of 0.050.05; 2) correctly links a pp-value less than or equal to 0.050.05 with rejecting the null hypothesis and concluding a significant relationship exists; and 3) correctly links a pp-value greater than 0.050.05 with retaining the null hypothesis due to insufficient evidence.

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Updated 2026-05-26

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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU

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