For statistical analysis purposes, we can simplify Stevens's four levels of measurement into two:

• Nominal variable (often referred to as categorical): Political affiliation is an example of a nominal variable, and could be measured as 1 (Republican), 2 (Democrat), and 3 (Independent). The mean, or average, of political affiliation has no meaning.
• Metric variable (often referred to as scale variable, which includes ordinal, interval, and ratio): Political philosophy is an example of a metric variable when measured on a Likert-type scale of 1 (very conservative), 2 (conservative), 3 (liberal), and 4 (very liberal). The mean, or average, of political philosophy does have meaning.

Quantitative Research Question: What is the difference in recidivism rate between veterans being enrolled in mental health programs and veterans who are not?

Variables for the Quantitative Research Question:

A.Independent Variable:Enrollment in mental health programs (veterans enrolled vs. not enrolled).

• Measurement Scale:Nominal (categories: enrolled vs. not enrolled).

B.Dependent Variable:Recidivism rate (the rate at which veterans re-offend or return to criminal behavior).

• Measurement Scale:Ratio (continuous variable: rate of recidivism).

C.Control Variables:

• Age:Interval or ratio scale depending on how it's measured (e.g., years).
• Length of service:Interval or ratio scale (e.g., years served).
• Type & Severity of mental health:Nominal or ordinal scale (categories or levels of severity).
• Previous record:Nominal scale (presence or absence of prior criminal record).
• Access to support system:Nominal or ordinal scale (e.g., high, medium, low access).

D.Extraneous Variables:

• Location of the veterans (urban, rural, etc.):Nominal scale.
• Support system:Nominal or ordinal scale.
• Employment after service:Nominal scale.

Using the information above and the attach document to answer the following question.

1. Statistical Analysis:Describe and defend a specific statistical procedure you would use to answer the research question.