Question

Two researchers are analysing the exact same data set, using multiple regression analyses to predict depression from secure attachment, neuroticism, and anxiety.  Jo decides to conduct a standard multiple regression (SMR).  Daniel decides to conduct a hierarchical multiple regression (HMR) with neuroticism and secure attachment in Block 1, and anxiety in Block 2.  The coefficients for all three IVs are the same for both researchers.  Which of the following statements must be true about the relationships among the independent variables?

		a) Anxiety is not correlated with either secure attachment or neuroticism.
		b) This would occur regardless of the relationships among the independent variables.
		c) Neuroticism is correlated with secure attachment.
		d) Anxiety is correlated with depression.

Answer 1

Solution:

The correct option is:

c) Neuroticism is correlated with secure attachment.

Explanation:

We are given that the coefficients of all three IVs are the same for both researchers. Also, since Daniel had neuroticism and secure attachment in Block 1 and anxiety in Block 2. All the coefficients will be equal only if the grouped variables are correlated together. Since all the coefficients are same for both the models, it means Neuroticism and secure attachment are correlated.