Data And Variable Correlations

Correlative statistics

Quantitative measures of variable relationships and data sets

2 things that Pearson coefficients show

• Direction of the statistical relationship (Positive or negative correlation)

• Strength of the mathematical relationship

Positive correlation

• If X is increasing then Y is increasing

• If X is decreasing then Y is decreasing

Negative correlation

• If X is increasing then Y is decreasing

• If X is decreasing then Y is increasing

Zero correlation

• No relationships between X and Y

• Scatter plot

Experiment

Controlled scientific procedure conducted to determine cause and effect relationships among variables

Variables

• Internal or external factors that change the experimental procedure

• Changes in participant behavior

Operational definition

• A clear step by step explanation of how the experiment is done

• It explains exactly what each variable means and how you’ll measure it

• This helps others repeat the experiment and trust the results

Independent variable

• Experimental variable or treatment variable

• Primary factor researchers hypothesize to determine the source of correlative relationships

• Only variable that is manipulated to test potential changes of behavior: Cause and effect

Dependent variable

• Measurable results caused by the independent variable

• Changes resulting from dependent upon the independent variable

Psychological dependent variables

Measurable changes of behavior