Question

Which of the following statements concerning correlation analysis is not true?
A.
A researcher may claim that one variable influences another if test results are significant.
B.
A researcher may claim that variables are related to each other if test results are significant.
C.
A researcher may claim that one variable causes another to occur if test results are significant.
D.
A researcher may claim that one variable can predict the outcome of another if test results are significant.

Answer 1

C.

Significant correlation shows association (and can support prediction) but does not prove that one variable causes or brings about changes in another. Correlation ≠ causation.