Multivariate Correlational Research

This set of flashcards covers key concepts, definitions, and terms related to multivariate correlational research as outlined in the lecture notes.

What defines multivariate designs in research?

Multivariate designs involve more than two measured variables.

What are longitudinal designs used for?

Longitudinal designs involve collecting data over periods of time to help address temporal precedence.

What do multiple regression analyses allow researchers to test for?

Multiple regression analyses allow us to test for third variables.

What is meant by 'control for' in multivariate research?

'Control for' refers to the process of accounting for or eliminating the influence of third variables in an analysis.

Define the criterion variable in regression analysis.

The criterion variable is the dependent variable.

What is a predictor variable?

A predictor variable is an independent variable in regression analysis.

What is the main disadvantage of bivariate correlational studies?

Bivariate correlational studies lack internal validity, temporal precedence, and covariance.

How do multivariate designs help establish causal relationships?

They help establish covariance, temporal precedence, and support internal validity.

What does parsimony refer to in scientific theories?

Parsimony is the principle that a scientific theory should provide the simplest explanation with the fewest exceptions.

What is the difference between mediators and third variables?

Mediators specify the mechanism behind a relationship, while third variables are outside influences that can affect the relationship.

How does a cross-sectional study differ from a longitudinal study?

A cross-sectional study collects data at one singular time point, whereas a longitudinal study collects data across multiple time points.

What is temporal precedence?

Temporal precedence is the condition that establishes which variable comes first in a causal relationship.

What role do third variables play in regression analysis?

Third variables are measured to account for their influence on the relationship between predictor and criterion variables.

Explain the significance of the beta value in regression analysis.

The beta value indicates the strength and direction (positive or negative) of the association between the predictor and criterion variables.

What do autocorrelations measure?

Autocorrelations measure the stability of a variable across different time points.

Describe what a cross-lag correlation tests.

Cross-lag correlations test the relationship between two variables measured at multiple time points.

What is the impact of using too many variables in multivariate designs?

Using too many variables can complicate the analysis and detract from parsimony.

What is meant by the term 'mediator' in research?

A mediator explains the process or mechanism through which one variable affects another.

What is the third-variable problem?

The third-variable problem involves the possibility that an unmeasured variable influences both the predictor and criterion variables in a relationship.

What is the significance of a criterion variable in a regression model?

The criterion variable is the outcome being predicted by the predictor variables.

Define a cross-sectional correlation.

A cross-sectional correlation is the relationship between variables measured at one point in time.

What does a longitudinal study help to establish?

A longitudinal study helps establish temporal precedence and changes over time.

What does 'r' represent in the context of correlations?

The 'r' represents the correlation coefficient, indicating the strength and direction of the relationship between two variables.

What are the limitations of experimental studies?

Experimental studies may not always be possible due to ethical concerns, practical limitations, or impossibility of random assignment.

Define what a main effect describes.

A main effect describes the direct relationship between two variables in a study.

What does multiple regression allow researchers to do?

Multiple regression allows researchers to assess the influence of multiple predictors on a single criterion while controlling for confounding factors.