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About Hypothesis

Testing: Examples

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Steps in Hypothesis Testing................................................................................................ 1

Step 4: Make a Decision ................................................................................................. 1

Directional Testing.............................................................................................................. 1

Directional Testing.......................................................................................................... 1

One-Tailed Testing ......................................................................................................... 1

Errors in Hypothesis Testing .............................................................................................. 1

Type I Error..................................................................................................................... 1

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About Hypothesis Testing: Examples

Steps in Hypothesis Testing

Step 4: Make a Decision

It is easier to show that something is false, rather than something is

true. For example, if you were to say that all nationalities speak

English, this claim could be disproved by presenting a nation of non-

English speakers. It would be very difficult to show that speaking

English is a trait common to the entire population.

Directional Testing

Directional Testing

An example of a two-tailed test might be a researchers prediction that

video games will have an effect on school grades. Positive and/or

negative effects are not specified, as some students may benefit from

the activity, while others may face detriments.

One-Tailed Testing

An example of a positive one-tailed test might be that of a researcher

predicting that sporting participation in youth will lead to a healthylifestyle in adulthood.

An example of a negative one-tailed test might be that of a researcher

predicting that an increased police presence in a seedy neighbourhood

will decrease crime in that area.

Errors in Hypothesis Testing

Type I Error

Type I error can have serious consequences.

For example, imagine if a drug company concluded that a new wonder

drug could counter the negative effects of chemotherapy in cancer

patients.

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If the significant result was really a Type I error, then the people who

took the drug would not receive the relief they were anticipating and

may actually suffer adverse effects.

The consequences of a Type II error are not as severe as they are for a

Type I error.

For example, consider the scenario in which the same drug company

claims a drug they have developed has no effect, when it actually

does. In this instance, patients fail to receive a drug that could

potentially alleviate their symptoms; however, the lack of access to

the drug will not cause a decline in their condition in and of itself.