Graphing Interactions

Which of the following best describes the statistical pattern known as a spreading interaction?

A spreading interaction can be described conceptually or identified visually in different types of charts. Match each representation of a spreading interaction with its specific description.

A researcher finds that a new mindfulness app significantly reduces stress for individuals with high-pressure jobs, but has no measurable effect on stress for individuals with low-pressure jobs. This pattern of results is an example of a spreading interaction.

Rank the following hypothetical research findings from the pattern that most strongly aligns with the definition of a 'spreading interaction' to the pattern that least aligns with it, based on the magnitude of the simple effects of Independent Variable A at each level of Independent Variable B.

In a $2 \times 2$$ factorial design, a spreading interaction typically appears on a bar graph as a significant difference in bar heights in one condition, contrasting with minimal differences in the other.

In a $2 \times 2$ factorial study, a researcher finds that a 'Sleep Deprivation' condition (Deprived vs. Rested) significantly impairs reaction time for 'Older Adults' but has no measurable effect on the reaction time of 'Younger Adults.' Why does this pattern qualify as a spreading interaction?

In a study using a $2 \times 2$ factorial design, a researcher finds that the simple effect of the independent variable at Level 1 of the moderator is null ($d = 0$), while the simple effect at Level 2 is large and statistically significant ($d = 0.85$). By analyzing the relationship between these two distinct simple effects, the researcher can identify the result as a(n) _____.

Match each hypothetical research outcome description to the type of visual pattern it would produce on a graph, based on the definition of a spreading interaction.

An analyst examines a line graph representing a $2 \times 2$ factorial design. They observe that the lines for the two groups are completely parallel in one condition but strongly diverge in the other condition. The analyst should conclude that this pattern of results represents a _____ interaction.

Order the steps a researcher must take to evaluate a visual plot and determine if the data represents a spreading interaction.