Which of the following is an example of a non directional hypothesis?
A)I hypothesize there is a positive relationship between a high-fat diet and weight gain.
B)I hypothesize there is a negative relationship between a high-fat diet and weight gain.
C)I hypothesize there is a relationship between a high-fat diet and weight gain.
D)I hypothesize there is no relationship between a high-fat diet and weight gain.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
C) I hypothesize there is a relationship between a high-fat diet and weight gain.
Explanation:
A non-directional hypothesis is one that predicts the existence of a relationship between two variables but does not specify the nature (or direction) of the relationship. In this case, Option C simply states that there is a relationship between a high-fat diet and weight gain, without specifying whether the relationship is positive (i.e., more fat leads to more weight gain) or negative (i.e., more fat leads to less weight gain). It leaves open the possibility that the relationship could be either positive or negative.
Let’s analyze each option:
- A) I hypothesize there is a positive relationship between a high-fat diet and weight gain.
This is a directional hypothesis because it specifies that the relationship between the high-fat diet and weight gain is positive (i.e., a high-fat diet leads to more weight gain). A directional hypothesis predicts the direction of the relationship between variables. - B) I hypothesize there is a negative relationship between a high-fat diet and weight gain.
This is also a directional hypothesis, but it predicts a negative relationship, meaning that a high-fat diet would result in less weight gain. Like Option A, this hypothesis specifies the direction of the relationship. - C) I hypothesize there is a relationship between a high-fat diet and weight gain.
This is a non-directional hypothesis because it only indicates that a relationship exists but does not predict whether it will be positive or negative. It is broader and more open-ended, which is the hallmark of a non-directional hypothesis. - D) I hypothesize there is no relationship between a high-fat diet and weight gain.
This is a null hypothesis rather than a non-directional one. A null hypothesis suggests that there is no effect or relationship between the variables being studied.
In summary, a non-directional hypothesis simply predicts that there is a relationship, without specifying its nature or direction, making Option C the correct answer.