Principles of Psychological Research

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on the principles of psychological research, focusing on correlation and its implications.

What does correlation describe in psychology?

The relationship between two or more dependent variables.

What is Pearson r?

A correlation coefficient used to measure the strength and direction of a linear relationship between two variables.

What are scatterplots used for?

To represent the direction and strength of correlation graphically.

What are some examples of relationships studied in correlation?

Height and weight, age and visual acuity, high school grades and university grades.

What does a positive correlation indicate?

As one variable increases, the other variable also increases.

What does a negative correlation indicate?

As one variable increases, the other variable decreases.

What does zero correlation mean?

There is no consistent relationship between the variables.

Why can't correlation be used to infer causation?

Correlation does not include independent variables and cannot explain cause-and-effect relationships.

What was the main finding of the study on violent television and aggression conducted by Eron et al.?

There was a moderate correlation (r = .21) between children's preference for violent TV and their aggressive behavior.

What is the purpose of the cross-lagged-panel correlation procedure?

To address the directionality problem by measuring the same variables over time.

What was the result of Eron's 10-year follow-up study regarding TV and aggression?

The early preference for violent TV was associated with later aggressive behavior.

What are some limitations of interpreting correlation results?

The directionality problem and the third variable problem.

What must be true for variables to be correlated using Pearson r?

The variables must be measured on the same individuals and on an interval or ratio scale.

What does restricted range in data mean for correlation?

It can lead to a misleading low correlation coefficient.

What statistical methods can help gain a better understanding of causation in correlational research?

Multiple regression, path analysis, and partial correlation.

What is the significance of the statement 'I used to think correlation implied causation' in the context of statistics education?

It highlights the common misconception about the nature of correlation and causation that is clarified through studying statistics.