Understanding Correlation, Regression, and Causality

What is the primary focus of correlation analysis?

• To examine the relationship between variables

• To determine the temporal order of events

• To predict future outcomes

• To establish a cause-effect relationship

In the example of intelligence tests and high school grades, what is the main challenge in establishing causality?

• Inability to measure intelligence accurately

• Absence of a temporal component

• Difficulty in setting up a regression model

• Lack of a significant correlation

What is a common mistake when interpreting statistics involving correlation?

• Assuming correlation implies causality

• Ignoring the correlation coefficient

• Overestimating the significance of data

• Confusing correlation with regression

What does a negative correlation indicate in the example of head lice and body temperature?

• Higher body temperature causes more lice

• Lice have no effect on body temperature

• More lice lead to higher body temperature

• More lice are associated with lower body temperature

What is the first requirement for establishing causality?

• Temporal ordering of variables

• A significant correlation

• A large sample size

• A well-founded theory

How can the second condition for causality be satisfied?

• Through random sampling

• By using advanced statistical software

• Through temporal ordering or a plausible theory

• By having a large dataset

In the example of a child's speaking age and school success, what ensures the causal relationship?

• The correlation coefficient is high

• The school success influences speaking age

• The speaking age is measured before school success

• Both variables are measured simultaneously

Why is it challenging to establish causality between intelligence and high school grades?

• There is no correlation

• Both are measured at the same time

• Grades are subjective

• Intelligence tests are inaccurate

What is a potential solution to determine causality between intelligence and school performance?

• Testing intelligence before school starts

• Ignoring the correlation

• Using a larger sample size

• Conducting intelligence tests after school

What is necessary to make a statement about causality when temporal ordering is absent?

• A significant correlation

• A well-founded theory

• A high correlation coefficient

• A large sample size