causation

Examples of causation in the following topics:

• Descriptive and Correlational Statistics

  • Correlation does not necessarily prove causation.
  • This is different than causation, where one variable is found to cause the other.
  • Only scientific experiments can prove causation.

• Correlational Research

  • Unlike experimental studies, however, correlational studies can only show that two variables are related—they cannot determine causation (which variable causes a change in the other).
  • In psychological research, it is important to remember that correlation does not imply causation; the fact that two variables are related does not necessarily imply that one causes the other, and further research would need to be done to prove any kind of causal relationship.
  • Always remember that correlation does not imply causation.
  • Only experimental research can determine causation.

• Controversies in Intelligence and Standardized Testing

  • However, it is important to note that correlational studies only show a relationship between two factors: they give no indication about causation.
  • However, correlational studies provide information about a relationship, not about causation.

• Evaluating the Biological Perspective on Personality

  • In addition, the correlational studies used for measuring normal personality traits are subjected to the same rules as normal correlational research: they cannot be used alone to establish causation.

• Experimental Research

  • Experimental research tests a hypothesis and establishes causation by using independent and dependent variables in a controlled environment.

• Group Differences in Intelligence

  • These findings, while statistically significant and frequently repeated, do not account for causation into the discrepancies themselves.

• Case Studies

  • They are used to explore causation in order to find underlying principles.

• Genetics, the Brain, and Personality

  • In addition, the correlational studies used for measuring normal personality traits are subjected to the same rules as normal correlational research: they cannot be used alone to establish causation.

• Memory Distortions and Biases

  • This type of bias comes from the human tendency to see cause-and-effect relationships when there are none; remember, correlation does not imply causation.

• Environmental Impacts on Prenatal Development

  • The use of antidepressants in pregnancy, mentioned above, has been associated with a variety of risks for the fetus with varying degrees of proof of causation.