Question

3.

An article noted that chocolate is rich in flavonoids. The article reports that​ "regular consumption of foods rich in flavonoids may reduce the risk of coronary heart​ disease." The study received funding from a candy company and a chocolate manufacturers association. Identify and explain at least one source of bias in the study described. Then suggest how the bias might have been avoided.

Choose the correct answer below.

A.

Since the sample is​ self-selected, there is a definite participation bias in this study. The researchers should randomly select the subjects of the study.

B.

The questions used in the study might have caused the respondents to give inaccurate or dishonest responses. The question wording should be changed to be more neutral.

C.

The data do not seem to support the claims being made by the article. The​ article's author should consult an expert to make sure that he or she is correctly interpreting the​ study's results.

D.

The researchers may have been more inclined to provide favorable results because funding was provided by a party with a definite interest. The bias could have been avoided if the researchers were not paid by the candy company and the chocolate manufacturers.

Answer 1