Mastering Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test Using SPSS


Introduction

The Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test is a non-parametric statistical test used to compare two related samples. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to perform and interpret the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test in SPSS, including assumptions, procedures, and APA style reporting.

Assumptions of the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test

  • The dependent variable should be continuous or ordinal.
  • The paired observations should be randomly and independently selected from the population.
  • The differences between paired observations should be symmetrically distributed.

Performing the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test in SPSS

  1. Load your dataset into SPSS.
  2. Go to Analyze > Nonparametric Tests > Legacy Dialogs > 2 Related Samples.
  3. Move the two related variables into the Test Pairs list.
  4. Select the Wilcoxon checkbox.
  5. Click OK to run the test.

Example Dataset

Consider a dataset where we have measurements of the same group of individuals at two different time points. Below is a snapshot of our data:

Participant Time 1 Time 2
1 23 25
2 21 22
3 19 20
4 18 19
5 22 23

SPSS Output and Results

After running the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test in SPSS, you will get the following output:

Ranks N Mean Rank Sum of Ranks
Negative Ranks 2 1.50 3.00
Positive Ranks 3 3.67 11.00
Ties 0
Total 5
Test Statistics Time 2 – Time 1
Z -2.023
Asymp. Sig. (2-tailed) .043

Results Interpretation

The Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test showed that there was a statistically significant difference in the scores between Time 1 and Time 2, Z = -2.023, p = .043.

APA Results Reporting

In APA format, you would report the results as follows:

A Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test was conducted to determine whether there was a statistically significant difference in scores between Time 1 and Time 2. The results indicated a significant difference, Z = -2.023, p = .043.

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Conclusion

The Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test is a valuable non-parametric method for comparing two related samples. By following this guide, you can effectively perform and interpret the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test in SPSS, ensuring your results are reported accurately in APA format.

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