Chapter 11.3, Problem 1LCA

A researcher is investigating the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment for chronic back pain. A sample of n = 4 participants is obtained from a pain clinic. Each individual ranks the current level of pain and then begins a 6-week program of acupuncture treatment. At the end of the program, the pain level is rated again and the researcher records the amount of difference between the two ratings. For this sample, pain level decreased by an average of M = 4.5 points with SS = 27.

a. Are the data sufficient to conclude that acupuncture has a significant effect on back pain? Use a two-tailed test with $\alpha$ = .05.

b. Can you conclude that acupuncture significantly reduces back pain? Use a one-tailed test with $\alpha$ = .05.