Formulating the Hypothesis

A hypothesis is a guess.

False. A hypothesis is an explanation of a relationship between two or more variables.

An experimental hypothesis is a proven explanation.

False. An experimental hypothesis is a tentative explanation of an event or behavior.

An experimental hypothesis predicts the effect of a dependent variable on an independent variable.

False. It predicts the effect of an independent variable on a dependent variable.

A nonexperimental hypothesis predicts causal relationships.

False. It predicts how variables might be correlated, but not causally related.

Hypotheses must always involve experiments.

False. Both experimental and nonexperimental hypotheses exist.

All hypotheses must have at least three variables.

False. A hypothesis explains a relationship between two or more variables.

A hypothesis is only useful if it is correct.

False. A hypothesis is useful whether it is supported or contradicted by data.

The primary purpose of a hypothesis is to prove a theory.

False. The purpose is to explain a relationship between variables and be tested.

A hypothesis cannot be revised once it is stated.

False. Hypotheses can be revised based on new data or insights.

Nonexperimental hypotheses are less valuable than experimental hypotheses.

False. Both types of hypotheses serve different purposes in research.

Hypotheses are only used in scientific research.

False. Hypotheses can be used in various fields to explain phenomena.

Testability is not a necessary characteristic of a good hypothesis.

False. Testability is crucial for a hypothesis to be scientifically valuable.

A hypothesis is essentially the same as a research question.

False. A hypothesis is a statement that attempts to explain a phenomenon, while a research question is an inquiry about it.

A good hypothesis is complex and includes many assumptions.

False. A good hypothesis is simple and parsimonious.

Variables in a nonexperimental hypothesis are manipulated by the researcher.

False. Variables are observed and measured as they naturally occur without manipulation.

An experimental hypothesis does not require a control group.

False. A control group is often necessary to compare the effects of the independent variable.

A hypothesis should be based purely on speculation.

False. Hypotheses should be informed by prior research or observations.

Rejecting a hypothesis means the research was a failure.

False. Rejecting a hypothesis provides valuable information and can guide future research.

The terms 'hypothesis' and 'theory' can be used interchangeably.

False. A hypothesis is a specific, testable prediction, while a theory is a broader explanation for a set of phenomena.

Once a hypothesis is confirmed, it becomes a law.

False. Confirmation of a hypothesis strengthens it but does not elevate it to the status of a law.