Correlational Relationship - GCSE Psychology Definition

Reviewed by: Raj Bonsor

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A correlational relationship in psychology refers to a connection between two variables where changes in one variable are linked to changes in the other. However, it does not mean that a change in one variable causes a change in the other variable.

For example, if we find that students who study more often tend to get higher marks, this suggests a correlation between study time and exam results. But it doesn't confirm that studying more is the direct cause of getting better marks. Correlations can be positive, where both variables increase together, or negative, where one increases while the other decreases.

Understanding correlational relationships helps psychologists identify patterns and connections in behaviours and experiences, even if they don't explain why they happen.

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Raj Bonsor

Reviewer: Raj Bonsor

Expertise: Psychology & Sociology Content Creator

Raj joined Save My Exams in 2024 as a Senior Content Creator for Psychology & Sociology. Prior to this, she spent fifteen years in the classroom, teaching hundreds of GCSE and A Level students. She has experience as Subject Leader for Psychology and Sociology, and her favourite topics to teach are research methods (especially inferential statistics!) and attachment. She has also successfully taught a number of Level 3 subjects, including criminology, health & social care, and citizenship.

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