The Illusory Correlation Effect Occurs When We

question 234

Multiple Choice

The illusory correlation effect occurs when we

• A)incorrectly assume that one social trait is the cause of another, simply because we have observed that they are correlated.
• B)are motivated to accurately estimate the frequency with which some pattern of social traits occurs.
• C)see correlations between social traits that really aren't there, because our expectations distort our memories.
• D)fail to see true correlations between social traits, because our expectations distort our memories.

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Definitions:

Maturation

The process of becoming mature; the process of developing in physical, sexual, intellectual, and emotional capacities, typically seen as a natural growth pattern.

Human Genome

The complete set of nucleic acid sequences for humans, encoded as DNA within the 23 chromosome pairs in cell nuclei and in a small DNA molecule found within individual mitochondria.

Genes

Units of heredity made up of DNA that carry genetic information and are responsible for the inherited characteristics of organisms.

Genetic Changes

Alterations in the DNA sequence of an organism's genome, which can occur naturally or be induced artificially.