Bivariate Correlations & Interrogating Association Claims

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to bivariate correlations and association claims.

Bivariate Correlation

An association that involves exactly two measured variables.

Association Claim

A description of the relationship between two measured variables.

Correlational Study

A study that can support an association claim but not a causal claim.

Construct Validity

How well a variable is operationalized in a study.

Statistical Validity

The strength and precision of the estimate, often evaluated with an r-value.

Observer Bias

A threat to validity where the researcher's expectations influence observations.

Acquiescence

A response bias where participants tend to agree with statements regardless of their true feelings.

Participant Reactivity

When participants alter their behavior due to being observed.

Covariance

The study shows that as variable A changes, variable B changes.

Temporal Precedence

The study design ensures that the cause comes before the effect.

Internal Validity

The study design ensures that there are no plausible alternative explanations for the relationship.

Moderator Variable

A variable that changes the direction or strength of the relationship between two variables.

Spurious Association

A bivariate correlation that exists only due to a third variable.

Restriction of Range

When not the full range of scores is possible for one variable, leading to underestimation of true correlation.

Curvilinear Association

When the relationship between two variables is not a straight line.

Empirical Method

A method used to assess the construct validity of a measure.