Case Study

Explain why the teammate's expectation shows a misunderstanding of statistical probability. What should actually be expected for the bowler's next game according to the principle of regression to the mean?

Case context: An amateur bowler who typically averages a score of 150150 suddenly bowls an exceptionally high game of 220220. Her teammate is convinced that this performance indicates the bowler has permanently improved her skill level and expects her to maintain a score close to 220220 in all future games.

Question: Explain why the teammate's expectation shows a misunderstanding of statistical probability. What should actually be expected for the bowler's next game according to the principle of regression to the mean?

Sample answer: The teammate's expectation is incorrect because it fails to account for regression to the mean. The bowler's score of 220220 is an extreme performance that represents a natural fluctuation rather than a permanent change in skill. According to the principle of regression to the mean, her next game is statistically likely to be significantly lower, returning closer to her long-term typical average of 150150 rather than remaining at the peak level of 220220.

Key points:

  • Explain that the teammate's belief ignores regression to the mean.
  • Describe the score of 220220 as a temporary natural fluctuation rather than permanent improvement.
  • Predict that the bowler's next game will be significantly lower, returning toward 150150.

Rubric: The response must demonstrate comprehension by: 1. Identifying that the teammate's prediction ignores the principle of regression to the mean. 2. Explaining that the score of 220220 is an extreme performance/natural fluctuation, not a permanent skill increase. 3. Predicting that the bowler's next game will be significantly lower and return closer to her average of 150150.

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Updated 2026-05-27

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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU

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