Correlational data would allow one to make which of the following statements?
A)"Depression causes weight gain."
B)"Weight gain causes people to become depressed."
C)"Depression is associated with higher weight."
D)"Lack of social support is the root of both depression and weight gain."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Correlational data only identifies a relationship or association between two variables, it cannot determine causation. Therefore, options A and B which suggest a causal relationship cannot be made based on correlational data. Option D introduces a new variable and cannot be concluded from the given information. Option C, however, simply states that there is a relationship between depression and weight, which is consistent with correlational data.

Correlational Data Would Allow One to Make Which of the Following