Researchers doing statistical studies in biology, psychology, and sociology are grateful for the existence of twins. Twins can be used to study whether certain traits are inherited from parents (nature) or acquired from one’s surroundings during upbringing (nurture). Identical twins are formed from the same egg in the mother and have the same genetic material. Fraternal twins are formed from two separate eggs and share roughly half of the same genetic material. Find a published report of a twin study. Discuss how identical and fraternal twins are used to form case and control groups. Apply Guidelines 1–8 to the study and comment on whether you find the conclusions of the report convincing.

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Eight Guidelines for Critically Evaluating a Statistical Study 1. Get a Big Picture View of the Study. For example, you should understand the goal of the study, the population that was under study, and whether the study was observational or an experiment. 2. Consider the Source. In particular, look for any potential biases on the part of the researchers. 3. Look for Bias in the Sample. That is, decide whether the sampling method was likely to produce a representative sample. 4. Look for Problems Defining or Measuring the Variables of Interest. Ambiguity in the variables can make it difficult to interpret reported results. 5. Beware of Confounding Variables. If the study neglected potential confounding variables, its results may not be valid. 6. Consider the Setting and Wording in Surveys. In particular, look for anything that might tend to pro- duce inaccurate or dishonest responses. 7. Check That Results Are Presented Fairly. For example, check whether the study really supports the conclusions that are presented in the media. 8. Stand Back and Consider the Conclusions. For example, evaluate whether study achieved its goals. If so, do the conclusions make sense and have practical significance?