Counselor Education Comprehensive Exam (CECE) Practice Exam

A statement that involves the expected relationship between two or more variables is called a:

1. a. null hypothesis

2. b. alternative hypothesis

3. c. variable hypothesis

4. d. research hypothesis

The correct answer is: d. research hypothesis

The concept of a research hypothesis is fundamental in the field of research, particularly in the social sciences and counselor education. A research hypothesis posits a specific relationship between two or more variables that the research intends to test. This hypothesis provides a clear, testable statement about what the researcher expects to find. In a research context, the hypothesis guides the design of the study and informs the selection of methods for data collection and analysis. It often stems from theoretical frameworks or previous research findings, suggesting a specific pattern or correlation that the researcher will investigate. In contrast to a research hypothesis, the null hypothesis serves as a default position that assumes no relationship or effect between the variables. An alternative hypothesis represents a competing claim that indicates a relationship exists. The term "variable hypothesis" is less commonly used in research literature and may not accurately capture the expected relationships like the research hypothesis does. Therefore, the research hypothesis stands out as the most appropriate term associated with a statement that articulates the anticipated connection between variables, making it the correct choice in this case.