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Deciphering Correlation

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Hi dear helpers,

I need an answer to the following scenario. Don't give me further readings, just compose an answer for 300-500 or more words. Thank you very much.

Review and complete the necessary estimates for the scenario below. From this experience, discuss some of the strengths, weaknesses, and caveats related to correlational research.

As a researcher, suppose you are interested in the extent to which biological factors are associated with shyness in females. Assume you have access to 20 adopted children, all females, and you give each a shyness test. The test yields scores from 0-20 and the higher the score, the greater the degree of shyness. You also test the biological mothers and the adoptive mothers. Indicate the values of the correlation coefficients that you might expect to see if (a) shyness is at least partially inherited; and if (b) shyness seems to be primarily a function of the environment. You should be presenting two values in your response to Part A and two for Part B.

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Solution Summary

This solution will give an example that outlines how to interpret data as it applies to correlations.

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- Strength: You can determine if a relationship exists between two variables
- Weakness: You cannot determine cause and effect (if one variable causes change in another)
- Caveat: Correlation does not equal causation (see "weakness"). While correlations are great for finding relationships, they cannot determine if one variable causes the other.

So, your basic question here is this: Is shyness an inherited trait? Thus, you are looking for a relationship between genetics and shyness.

Keep in mind that one flaw of this particular study would be that all of your participants are females. Thus, it may not be safe to generalize to men as well; you would have to state your findings as being that there is or is not a ...

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