Sugar Consumption and Hyperactivity - Essay Example

There is some question as to whether this sample is sufficiently random, and whether that sample accurately represents the population. Another question to ask is how representative the sample was, having only 50 represented could result in sample size as reported in guideline 3 of the article. In addition, the data that is used comes from the parents, rather than a single observer. As a result, there is likely to be significant variation in the observed results. Lastly, the question one remains asking is that the conclusions made are based on what? The study does not tell us the values of comparison in order to reach the conclusion, it is important to consider guideline 8 in making the conclusions since sometimes the comparison values could not be significant to warrant such a conclusion made.

What are the strengths and weaknesses of the study design?

The data reported by the parents is essentially anecdotal, rather than being an actual measure of the child's activity or energy level. The parent's perception of how active their child is at any particular moment may be affected by the parent's own mood and tolerance for activity at the time. If a parent is feeling particularly harried or overwhelmed, a lesser level of activity on the part of their child may seem more "active" than usual. Conversely, if a parent is feeling less stressed, they may be more tolerant of activity before they reach the point where the activity of the child seems "high" or "excessive". In other words, the parent's perception of the child's activity may be inconsistent (According to guideline 1 we would conclude that the type of study is not appropriate), both due to the lack of a standard scale of measurement and by their emotional state. Finally, this particular study was sponsored by a group that has a vested interest in the outcome. In particular, the stated outcome favors the company that sponsored the study-this is similar to what we observe in guideline 2 of the article. This calls the result into question, as it has the appearance of being self-serving. While it does not necessarily mean that the results are invalid, it does mean that the study is worthy of increased scrutiny in order to convince others that the results are valid. Also, it is not known whether the families were compensated by the sugar company in any way for their participation. This would also cause one to question the results of the survey. Because of these factors, I would be disinclined to believe the results of this study based on the information that has been presented.

How would you design a study differently to answer this question?

A better approach to this study would be conducting an independent study to be performed (i.e. without the involvement of the sugar company, or any other entity that has a vested interest in the outcome), involving a random sample of children. This independent study should involve observation of the children by a researcher or researchers, who can agree on a consistent measure of a child's activity. This will remove any bias that parents may have due to their personal and emotional state. It would be expected that the researchers would have less (or no) emotional involvement with the subjects (children), and would thus be less likely to subconsciously alter their assessments.