Correlational research and causation – UGC NET Question

In this set, statements A, C and D correctly describe aspects of correlational research, while statements B and E are wrong. Statement A is true because correlational studies focus on the degree and direction of relationships between variables without manipulating them. Statement C accurately states that correlation coefficients vary from –1 to +1, and statement D is correct in noting that a coefficient of zero indicates no linear relationship. Statement B is false because correlation, even if high, does not by itself establish causation, and statement E is false since positive correlation means both variables tend to increase or decrease together, whereas a negative correlation describes the pattern where one increases and the other decreases.

Option A:
Option A singles out B as the only wrong statement and ignores E. While B is indeed incorrect because correlation does not imply causation, E is also wrong in describing positive correlation as involving opposite directional change. By failing to treat E as wrong, this option does not capture the full set of incorrect statements.

Option B:
Option B correctly groups B and E as the wrong statements about correlational research. It recognises that interpreting correlation as causation is a conceptual error and that positive correlation has been misdescribed. Since it does not misclassify A, C or D as wrong, this option provides the accurate combination of incorrect statements.

Option C:
Option C marks E as the only wrong statement and overlooks B. Although E is incorrect, B also misleads by equating high correlation with causal influence. Because the option fails to include all wrong statements, it cannot be the right answer.

Option D:
Option D treats A along with B and E as wrong, which is inaccurate. Statement A is actually a correct description of correlational research as investigating relationships between variables. By misclassifying A as wrong and combining it with B and E, this option becomes inconsistent with the basic definition of correlational studies.