Correlational Studies Flashcards
What is a correlation?
A relationship between two variables.
What does a correlational study allow us to test?
Whether two or more variables are related, if so how strongly.
When do we use a correlational design?
To test a hypothesis for a relationship.
When looking for a relationship that would be impractical or unethical to manipulate for an experiment e.g. smoking & age of death.
What is a positive correlation?
As one variable increases, the other also increases with the coefficient 0 to +1 e.g. the taller a person is, the heavier they are
What is a negative correlation?
As one variable increases, the other decreases with a coefficient 0 to -1 e.g. Alcohol intake & memory
What is no correlation?
There is no relationship between the variables with the coefficient close to 0
e.g. Shoe size & IQ
What are the strengths of correlational studies?
No manipulation of behaviour is required, therefore it is high in ecological validity.
Often can be repeated.
Can make use of previous data, therefore can be quick and easy.
What are the weaknesses of correlational studies?
No cause and effect relationships can be inferred.
They may lack internal/ external validity and lack generalisability.
