A program report shows mean wage outcomes pulled upward by a few very high earners, while most clients earn far less. Which summary statistic better represents the typical wage for counseling stakeholders?
Select an answer to reveal the explanation.
Short Explanation
A couple of big paychecks can yank the average sky-high like a balloon, leaving everyone else's wages looking fancier than they are. The median sits in the middle of the pack and tells a truer 'typical' story. Stakeholders deserve that clearer picture.
Full Explanation
When outcome distributions are skewed by extreme values, the arithmetic mean can misrepresent central tendency. The median is more resistant to distortion from a few high earners and often better communicates typical wages. Rehabilitation program reporting should choose summary statistics that match the data shape and the decision needs of stakeholders.