What Demographic Variables Were Measured At The Nominal Leve

What Demographic Variables Were Measured At The Nominal Leve

Question: What demographic variables were measured at the nominal level of measurement in the Oh et al. (2014) study? Answer: The demographic variables measured at the nominal level include non-smoker, non-drinker, history of fracture, and regular exercise. These variables are considered nominal because they can be described by percentages and the mode.

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The study conducted by Oh et al. (2014) aimed to investigate various health-related variables and assess the efficacy of a therapeutic lifestyle modification (TLM) program. Understanding the demographic variables at different measurement levels is crucial in interpreting the study's findings and ensuring the validity of comparisons between groups.

Demographic Variables Measured at the Nominal Level

In the Oh et al. (2014) study, several demographic variables were measured at the nominal level of measurement. Nominal variables are categorical and can be classified into different categories without any inherent order. The variables measured at this level included smoking status (non-smoker versus smoker), alcohol consumption (non-drinker versus drinker), history of fractures (yes versus no), and engagement in regular exercise (regular exercise versus none). These variables are essential for characterizing the sample population and for controlling potential confounding factors in the analysis.

The importance of these nominal variables lies in their ability to describe sample composition effectively. They can be summarized using percentages, frequencies, and modes, which facilitate understanding the distribution of participants across categories. For example, knowing the proportion of non-smokers or non-drinkers helps contextualize the health status of the sample and allows for comparisons with other populations or studies.

Significance of Nominal Variables in Clinical Research

Measuring demographic variables at the nominal level provides essential insights into the characteristics of the study population. These variables assist researchers in assessing the homogeneity or heterogeneity of groups at baseline, which is vital for interpreting the effectiveness of interventions. Homogeneity at the outset implies that the groups are comparable in key demographic aspects, thereby reducing potential bias and enhancing internal validity.

For instance, if the proportion of non-smokers or those engaging in regular exercise is comparable between intervention and control groups, researchers can be more confident that differences observed post-intervention are attributable to the intervention itself rather than pre-existing disparities. This measurement approach supports the goal of randomized controlled trials in ensuring comparability between groups and maintaining the study’s internal validity.

Conclusion

In sum, the Oh et al. (2014) study measured several demographic variables at the nominal level, including smoking status, alcohol consumption, fracture history, and exercise habits. These variables serve as foundational descriptors of the sample, enabling accurate demographic characterization and facilitating valid comparisons between study groups. Their measurement at the nominal level allows for straightforward statistical summarization and enhances the interpretability of the research findings.

References

  • Oh, J., et al. (2014). Effects of a Therapeutic Lifestyle Modification Program on Bone Mineral Density and Health Outcomes. Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 8(3), 292-300.
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