Several correlational studies point to the basic conclusion that the more time students spend playing violent video games, the greater their tendency to engage in delinquent behavior. Based on this result, you would be justified in stating that:
A) playing violent video games causes delinquent behavior.
B) there is a positive correlation between delinquent behavior and playing violent video games.
C) there is a negative correlation between playing violent video games and delinquent behavior.
D) the researchers were conducting pseudoscientific research.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The best choice is B because the correlational studies found a positive correlation between playing violent video games and delinquent behavior, indicating that there is a relationship between the two variables but not necessarily a causal relationship. Option A is not the best choice because correlation does not equal causation. Option C is not the best choice because it contradicts the findings of the correlational studies. Option D is not the best choice because there is no evidence in the scenario to suggest that the research was pseudoscientific.

Several Correlational Studies Point to the Basic Conclusion That the More