Question

which of the following statements about correlational research is false?
b) correlational methods rely on measuring rather than manipulating variables.
d) correlational methods are useful for describing the direction and magnitude of association between two variables.
c) correlational methods are useful for establishing cause and effect relationships between two variables.
a) correlational methods involve the study of naturally occurring relationships among variables.

Explanation:

To determine the false statement about correlational research, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Correlational methods study naturally occurring relationships (correct, as they observe without manipulation).
• Option B: Correlational research measures variables (since it doesn't manipulate them, it relies on measurement; correct).
• Option C: Correlational methods can describe the direction (positive/negative) and magnitude (strength) of the association between two variables (correct, via correlation coefficients like Pearson's r).
• Option D: Correlational research cannot establish cause - and - effect relationships. This is a key limitation of correlational studies (e.g., a correlation between sleep and mood doesn't mean sleep causes mood changes, as other factors could be involved). So this statement is false.

Answer:

D. Correlational methods are useful for establishing cause and effect relationships between two variables.