RM: Correlations

Question 1

What is a correlation?

Answer 1

Illustrates strength + direction of an association between two covariables

Question 2

What are the types of correlation?

Answer 2

Positive (increase together)
Negative (one inc and the other dec)
Zero (no relation)

Question 3

What is not included in a correlation?

Answer 3

No manipulation of variables so cause and effect relationship can’t be demonstrated

Question 4

What are the strengths of correlations?

Answer 4

Useful starting point for research bc it shows how two variables are related, if correlation is strong may suggest future hypothesis

Economical because a controlled environment isn’t needed and secondary data can be used which is less time consuming

Question 5

What are the limitations of correlations?

Answer 5

No cause and effect but often presented as causal which can lead to false conclusions

There may be intervening variables that are not tested causing association which can also lead to false conclusions