Correlations

Question 1

Correlation

Answer 1

Illustrates the strength and direction of an association between two co-variables

Question 2

Scattergram

Answer 2

One co-variable is on the x-axis, the other on the y-axis.

Question 3

Positive correlation

Answer 3

Co-variables increase together.

Question 4

Negative correlation

Answer 4

One co-variable increases, the other decreases

Question 5

Zero correlation

Answer 5

No relationship between variables.

Question 6

Difference between correlations and experiments

Answer 6

In an experiment the researcher manipulates the IV and records the effect on the DV. In a correlation there is no manipulation of variables and so cause and effect cannot be demonstrated.

Question 7

What is one strength of correlations?

Answer 7

Useful starting point for research.
By assessing the strength and direction of a relationship, correlations provide a measure of how two variables are related.
If variables are strongly related it may suggest hypothesis for future research.

Question 8

What is a second strength of correlations?

Answer 8

Relatively economical.
Unlike a lab study, there is no need for a controlled environment and can use secondary data (e.g. government statistics).
So correlations are less time-consuming than experiments.

Question 9

What is one limitation of correlations?

Answer 9

No cause and effect.
Correlations are often presented as casual e.g. by the media, when they only show how two variables are related.
This leads to false conclusions about causes of behaviour.

Question 10

What is a second limitation of correlations?

Answer 10

Interviewing variables.
Another untested variable may explain relationship between co-variable.
This may also lead to false conclusions.