What features of the story on milk chocolate and heart health described in question 11 should cause you to consider the results less convincing? a. The study was sponsored by a large milk chocolate manufacturer; b. A total of 10 rats were used in the study; c. The only difference between the rats was that human participants of the experimental group received chocolate along with their regular diets, and the human participants of the control group received no additional food; d. The reporter notes that other studies indicate milk chocolate does not have a beneficial effect on heart health; e. all of the above

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify potential biases and limitations in the study design and sponsorship. Consider how the funding source, in this case, a large milk chocolate manufacturer, might influence the study's outcomes or its interpretation.
2. Evaluate the sample size used in the study. A small sample size, like the 10 rats mentioned, can lead to less reliable results that might not be generalizable to larger populations.
3. Analyze the experimental design and control measures. Check if the study properly controlled other variables that could affect the outcome, such as the diet and health status of human participants, to isolate the effect of milk chocolate on heart health.
4. Consider the consistency of the study's findings with existing research. If other studies have shown contradictory results regarding the effect of milk chocolate on heart health, it raises questions about the reliability or generalizability of this study's findings.
5. Combine all these factors to critically assess the overall credibility and convincingness of the study's results. Each of these elements can individually or collectively influence the study's validity and should be carefully considered.

Key Concepts

Study Sponsorship Bias

When a study is sponsored by an entity that has a vested interest in the outcome, such as a milk chocolate manufacturer, it raises concerns about bias. This sponsorship can influence the study's design, data interpretation, and reporting, potentially leading to results that favor the sponsor's product rather than providing an objective assessment.

Sample Size and Generalizability

The sample size of a study significantly impacts the reliability of its findings. In this case, using only 10 rats limits the ability to generalize the results to a larger population. Small sample sizes can lead to statistical anomalies and do not adequately represent the variability found in broader populations.

Contradictory Evidence

The presence of other studies indicating that milk chocolate does not benefit heart health introduces skepticism about the validity of the current study's findings. When new research contradicts established evidence, it is essential to critically evaluate the methodology and conclusions of the new study to determine its credibility.