Which of the following statements about the statistical validity of association claims is true?

• A. If an association is not statistically significant, it proves there is no relationship between the variables.
• B. A statistically significant result guarantees that the association is practically important.
• C. Statistical validity is only concerned with the size of the sample, not the strength of the association.
• D. A statistically significant association means the relationship is likely not due to random chance.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that statistical validity in association claims refers to how well the data supports the existence of a relationship between variables, considering the role of chance.
2. Recognize that if an association is not statistically significant, it does not prove there is no relationship; it only means there is insufficient evidence to confidently claim a relationship exists.
3. Know that a statistically significant result does not guarantee practical importance; it only indicates that the observed association is unlikely to be due to random chance.
4. Remember that statistical validity involves both the size of the sample and the strength of the association, as both affect the ability to detect true relationships.
5. Conclude that the true statement is: 'A statistically significant association means the relationship is likely not due to random chance,' which captures the essence of statistical validity.