It is difficult to draw causal inferences in correlational research because
A)in correlational research variables are manipulated
B)of the placebo effect
C)of the social desirability bias
D)it is difficult to tell which variable causes the other

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In correlational research, researchers observe what naturally goes on in the world without manipulating any variables. Therefore, while they can identify relationships between variables, they cannot definitively establish cause and effect because they cannot control for all other potential causal factors. This makes it difficult to determine which variable is the cause and which is the effect.

It Is Difficult to Draw Causal Inferences in Correlational Research