Correlational Research Flashcards
Name and explain the two disciplines in scientific research
-Correlational psychology : concerned with studying individual differences and investigating the relationship between naturally occurring variables
-Experimental psychology : not interested in invidual differences, but rather minimising these
What is meant by correlation ?
It identifies an association between two variables
What is meant by regression ?
Used to make predictions when a strong correlation exists
What are two problems when looking at correlational research and causality ?
- Which one comes first ? (Directionality)
- Third variables
Why do we use correlational research ?
- Practicality : some variables can’t be randomly assigned
- Some research is conducted with prediction in mind
- Ethical grounds
Name 4 places where we will use correlational research?
- Psychological testing
- Research in Personality and Abnormal Psychology
- Studying the nature-nurture controversy
- Cross-sectional study
Why can’t we make casual conclusions because of correlations ?
Correlations do not mean causality because of individual differences
