Do correlational studies contribute in understanding 'cause and effect' relationship in human behaviour? Discuss.
Correlational studies examine the strength and direction of relationships between variables but cannot establish causality. The maxim “correlation does not equal causation” highlights their central limitation.
Two problems explain this. First, the directionality problem—we cannot determine whether variable A causes B, or B causes A. Second, the third-variable problem—an unmeasured factor may influence both. For instance, the observed correlation between ice cream sales and drowning does not mean ice cream causes drowning; instead, hot weather increases both.
Despite these constraints, correlational studies remain highly valuable. They enable exploration of variables that cannot be manipulated for ethical or practical reasons, such as the link between child abuse and later aggression. Moreover, they provide initial evidence of patterns in behavior, guiding future experimental research.
Thus, while correlational studies cannot establish cause and effect, they are indispensable tools for identifying meaningful associations in psychology.
Answered By:
Personality is all in our genes.' Evaluate the statement in the context of different personality theories.
When psychologists label their perspective humanistic, what does this term mean to you? What is its relevance in the modern era?
In what ways is probability sampling appropriate in the conduct of psychological research? Illustrate your answer with different techniques of probability sampling.
Discuss the role of biological, cognitive and learning influences on gender identity and gender typing by focusing on relevant theories and research studies.
Are quasi-experimental designs more advantageous than experimental designs? Discuss in the light of various methodological considerations.
Bring out the contributions of Binet and Wechsler in the measurement of intelligence. In what ways are Wechsler's approach and procedures more effective than Binet's approach and procedures ? Discuss with examples.
Describe social cognitive theory and its applications to solve large scale societal problems.
Meditation alters consciousness.' Discuss this by explaining meditation and consciousness along with relevant research examples.
What is the Whorfian hypothesis of linguistic relativity? Evaluate with empirical evidences.
Explain how psychological and cultural factors affect perception.
How will you manage a case of misplaced copper-T (Cu-T)?
Describe the embryogenesis, clinical features and principles of management of cleft palate.
Write short notes in 150 words:
Metagenesis
Write short notes in 150 words:
Book lungs
Write short notes in 150 words:
Paedomorphosis