Correlational research.

?

Correlational research.

Advantages

  • If correlation is significant then further investigation is justified.
  • If correlation is not significant then you can probably rule out a causal relationship.
  • No manipulation of behaviour is required.
  • The correlation coefficient can readily quantify observational data.

Disadvantages

  • No direct cause and effect can be inferred - the association between two variables could potentially be explained by a third variable.
  • As with experiments, may lack internal/external validity.

Evaluation

Correlational analysis and research is useful in providing links between variables that can further be investigated, however as correlation does not infer cause, this type of research can also be affected by mediating factors, making it lack internal validity.

Comments

No comments have yet been made

Similar Psychology resources:

See all Psychology resources »See all Research methods and techniques resources »