Correlations

Question 1

What are correlational studies

Answer 1

A research method which looks for a causal relationship between two measured variables/covariables.

A change in one variable is related to a change in the other, although, the changes cannot be assumed to be causal. None of the variables are manipulated, they are only measured.

Question 2

What are the directions of correlations

Answer 2

1)Positive correlation
2)Negative correlation

Question 3

What are positive correlations

Answer 3

This is when variables change in the same direction. increase in one variable results to an increase in the and variable.
eg: The more you excercise the healthier you become.

Question 4

What are negative correlations

Answer 4

When two variables change in the opposite direction.
As one increases the other decreases
E.g increase in darkness decreases vision

Question 5

Strengths of correlations

Answer 5

• If the co-variables are clearly operationalised there is high validity of data
• Can be used to investigate variables that may be impractical or unethical to manipulate.

•High reliability if the measures are consistent

Question 6

Weaknesses of correlations

Answer 6

One cannot make accurate cause effect statements

Issues of causality because there could be a third variable affecting the changes

Correlations are restricted to research that are quantitative and so they cannot be used to measure why behaviours are occurring.