L4 - Correlations

Question 1

What is a correlation?

Answer 1

A technique for analysing strengths and direction of the relationship between 2 variables, known as co-variables.

Question 2

What are the numbered strengths of correlations?

Answer 2

• 0 means there is no correlation
• -1 means that there is a strong negative correlation
• +1 means that there is a strong positive correlation

Question 3

What are the advantages of using correlations?

Answer 3

1. This technique allows psychologists to establish the strength between 2 variables and measure it precisely.
2. Once a correlation has been conducted predictions can be made about these variables and their effects.
3. This technique allows researchers to investigate things that could not be manipulated experimentally for ethical/practical reasons.

Question 4

What are the disadvantages of using correlations?

Answer 4

1. This type of analysis cannot demonstrate cause and effect; we can’t tell which variables affect each other.
2. Even if there is a clear correlation between 2 variables, it may be that the variables aren’t even related, and there is a 3rd unknown that influences both.
3. Correlation only measures linear relationships, not curvilinear relationships. (+ turns -, or vice versa)

Question 5

What are the differences between correlations and experiments?

Answer 5

An experiment isolates and manipulates the IV to observe an effect on the DV. Therefore, experiments establish a cause and effect.

However a correlation can only predict a relationship, as a 3rd extraneous variables;e may be involved that isn’t known about..