Correlations Flashcards
What is a correlational study
No variables are manipulated, two co variables are measured and compared to look for a Relationship
What are co variables
The two factors/variables that are measured/ collected by the researcher and then compared to each other
Examples of co variables
- age
- IQ
- hostility level
- reaction time
How are correlation illustrated
Scatter graph
Positive correlation
As one co variables increase the other co variable increase (upwards direction)
Negative correlation
As one co variable increase the other co variable decreases (downwards pattern)
Zero correlation
No relationship between the values of the two co variables (random pattern)
Correlation co efficient
Number given to the correlation to indicates its strength and direction
What does the sign in font of the number stand for
- means negative correlation and + means positive correlation
Perfect positive
+ 1
Perfect negative
- 1
What stats are used to calculate correlation coefficient
Spearman’s rho and pearsons
What do the stats test assess
Interrater reliability and test retest reliability
What is a strong correlation
Coefficient equal to or greater than 0.8
Strengths of correlations
- highlight potential causal relationships, which can be tested with experimental methods to discover cause and effect
- few ethical problems as covarible data already exists and is easily accessible
- describes both direction and strength of relationship between factors
