Introduction to Probability Theory and Heath Statistics

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BHS 220 Introduction to Probability Theory and Heath Statistics
Module 4 discussion
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September 15, 2014
In inferential statistics, the null hypothesis shows that there is either no relationship between variables or that there is no difference in the experimental and control groups. On the other hand, the alternative hypothesis predicts that the variables are related or that there is a difference in the groups. In a study carried out by Brook and Zhang (2013), the authors focused on how maladaptive personal attributes influences development and progression of lung cancer among women. The researchers further focused on how psychological predictors influenced maladaptive behavior and cigarette smoking. In research, the p-value indicates the significance of observed results, with hypothesis testing indicating validity of a claim (Michelson & Schofield, 2002). The p-value then helps to assess the strength of evidence in hypothesis testing on whether to accept or reject the null hypothesis. Study results that are highly significant show that that it is most likely that the results are true and the results are compared with a cut off or critical value.
Ho: (Null hypothesis) personal attributes have no effect on the progression of lung disease and later cigarette smoking
H1: (Alternative hypothesis): there is an association between maladaptive personal attributes and progression of lung disease and later cigarett...