research methods: correlation

Question 1

what is correlational research?

Answer 1

measurement of the extent to which 2 pairs of related values on 2 variables tend to change together

Question 2

why are correlations described in terms of co variables?

Answer 2

both variables change and are measured, neither is set or controlled by the researcher

Question 3

what is a positive correlation?

Answer 3

both variables increase together
- eg height and weight

Question 4

what is a negative correlation?

Answer 4

one variable increases as the other decreases
- eg height and temp decrease

Question 5

what is the correlation coefficient?

Answer 5

strength of the correlation
- less than 0 = neg
- more than 0 = pos
0-0.3 = weak
0.3-0.7 = moderate
0.7-1 = strong

Question 6

strengths of correlations

Answer 6

• investigate otherwise unethical situations
• control for ppt variables as both sets of data provided by same person
• lead to new research
• replicable method eg self report

Question 7

weaknesses of correlations

Answer 7

• identify link not cause
• lack validity
• self report is subjective
• uses secondary data

Question 8

supporting study for correlation

Answer 8

Li et al
- used fMRI scans on chronic heroin use and activity in PCC
- unaffected by social desirability / DCs so valid
- however self reporting heroin use