Correlations

Question 1

What are correlations?

Answer 1

Investigation into association between two co-variables

Question 2

What is a positive correlation?

Answer 2

As one co-variable increases, so does the other

Question 3

What is a negative correlation?

Answer 3

As one co-variable increases, the other decreases

Question 4

What is zero correlation?

Answer 4

When there is no relationship between co-variables

Question 5

What are the differences between correlations and experiments?

Answer 5

Experiments:
- Manipulate IV, and measure effect on DV
- Cause and effect

Question 6

What are the strengths of correlations?

Answer 6

• Useful preliminary tools (precise measure of how co-variables are related)
• Quick and economical

Question 7

What are the limitations of correlations?

Answer 7

• Lacks causation
• Intervening variables may cause the relationship between co-variables
• Can be misunderstood and misinterpreted (relationships sometimes presented as causal when they are not)