Question

In one study that illustrates optional stopping, subjects tested paper strips in their saliva to see if they had a mild but negative medical condition. Some were told the test paper would eventually change color if they did have the condition, and some were told that it would eventually change color if they did not have the condition. The paper didn't change for either group. The study found that:
Select an answer and submit. For keyboard navigation, use the up/down arrow keys to select an answer.

a
Subjects who thought that no change in the paper was a good sign waited longer and were more likely to re-test the paper.

b
Subjects who thought that no change in the paper was a good sign were more likely to refuse to participate in the study.

c
Subjects who thought that no change in the paper was a bad sign waited longer and were more likely to re-test the paper.

d
Subjects who thought that no change in the paper was a bad sign were more likely to refuse to participate in the study.

Answer 1

c

Subjects who believed “no change” was a bad sign waited longer and were more likely to re-test, seeking a later (more favorable) change.