In a re-analysis of published studies, Twenge and Im (2007) found that for the time period 1958-2001, the need for social approval of people in the United States was negatively correlated with the U.S.divorce rate during the same period (the correlation coefficient was -0.38).This correlation means that:
A) the need for social approval prevented people from seeking divorce.
B) the need for social approval spurred people to divorce.
C) when the need for social approval was high, divorce rates were low.
D) when the need for social approval was high, divorce rates were high.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The negative correlation coefficient of -0.38 indicates that as the need for social approval increased, divorce rates decreased. Therefore, when the need for social approval was high, divorce rates were low. Option A and B are incorrect because the negative correlation does not indicate a causation between the two variables.

In a Re-Analysis of Published Studies, Twenge and Im (2007)