psych 2

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University of Colorado, Boulder *

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Psychology

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Apr 3, 2024

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docx

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Negative correlation and positive correlation are two types of relationships that can exist between two variables. Understanding these two types of connections can help you compare data sets effectively and draw meaningful conclusions. Correlation refers to a statistical relationship between two variables, indicating how changes in one variable are associated with changes in another. A positive correlation exists when two variables operate in unison so that when one variable rises or falls, the other does the same. In a positive correlation, as one variable increases, the other variable also tends to increase. Conversely, as one variable decreases, the other variable tends to decrease. An example of positive correlation is the relationship between the amount of rainfall and the growth of plants. As the amount of rainfall increases, the growth of plants also increases. On the other hand, a negative correlation is when two variables move opposite one another so that when one variable rises, the other falls. A classic example of negative correlation is the relationship between the number of hours spent studying and the number of mistakes made on a test. As the number of study hours increases, the number of mistakes decreases. Correlations allow for prediction but do not establish cause-and-effect relationships. This distinction is essential for understanding the limitations of correlational research. Positive and negative correlations provide valuable information for predicting the behavior of one variable based on the knowledge of the other. If there is a strong positive correlation between study time and exam scores, one could predict higher scores for individuals who spend more time studying. Similarly, a negative correlation between TV-watching and exam scores could be used to predict lower scores for individuals who spend more time watching TV. Correlations do not determine causation. Even if two variables are correlated, it does not mean that one variable causes the other. The observed association could be due to a third variable, confounding factors, or a bidirectional relationship. While positive and negative correlations are valuable devices for predicting behaviors or outcomes, they do not provide evidence for cause-and-effect relationships. Positive and Negative Correlations (With Definitions and Examples) . (n.d.). Indeed Career Guide. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career- development/positive-and-negative-correlations Negative Correlation vs. Positive Correlation - What’s the Difference? (n.d.). This vs. That. Retrieved January 25, 2024, from https://thisvsthat.io/negative-correlation-vs- positive-correlation
Cherry, K. (2022). Why Correlational Studies Are Used in Psychological Research . Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/correlational- research-2795774
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