A researcher has examined a variety of correlational studies that point to a causal relationship between two variables.All of the studies have found a positive relationship between the two variables,but for ethical reasons,no experiments have been conducted.Using an approach of pattern and parsimony,the researcher may begin to make a causal claim by doing which of the following?
A) Running another correlational study but with more people
B) Specifying a mechanism or explanation for the causal relationship
C) Examining the dates of the studies to look for temporal precedence
D) Replicating all of the original studies
E) None of the above will be of assistance

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In order for the researcher to make a causal claim, they must specify a mechanism or explanation for the observed correlation. Correlational studies only provide evidence for a relationship between variables, and cannot establish causality. Therefore, the researcher must go beyond the correlation and provide a plausible explanation for why one variable causes changes in the other variable. This would allow the researcher to make a stronger claim about the causal relationship between the two variables. Running another correlational study with more people or replicating the original studies would not necessarily strengthen the causal claim, as they would simply be adding more correlational evidence. Examining the dates of the studies for temporal precedence may be helpful, but it alone would not provide a sufficient explanation for the causal relationship.

A Researcher Has Examined a Variety of Correlational Studies That