A study that surveyed a random sample of otherwise healthy high school students found that they arc more likely to get muscle cramps when they are stressed. The study also noted that students drink more coffee and sleep less when they are stressed.

(a) What type of study is this?

(b) Can this study be used to conclude a causal relationship between increased stress and muscle cramps?

(c) State possible confounding variables that might explain the observed relationship between increased stress and muscle cramps.

Question

Mathematics

Ingrid Santos

3 March, 17:43

A study that surveyed a random sample of otherwise healthy high school students found that they arc more likely to get muscle cramps when they are stressed. The study also noted that students drink more coffee and sleep less when they are stressed.

(a) What type of study is this?

(b) Can this study be used to conclude a causal relationship between increased stress and muscle cramps?

(c) State possible confounding variables that might explain the observed relationship between increased stress and muscle cramps.

+2

Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

Wade Kelley · Answer 1

Answer: a) Observational Study b) No c) Loss of muscle activity leading to cramps.

Step-by-step explanation:

Since this type of study does not involve an experiment, so it is an observational study.

This study is just to observe things not put any experiment variables on your own so it can not be used to conclude a casual relationship between increased stress and muscle cramps.

According to the statement the cramps happen because they rest less and drink coffee more while sitting. Since they are sitting more and muscles cramps become more common due to this. This is in direct relationship to the stress and when students are stressed they drink more coffee, work more and sit more leading to cramps.