The use of correlational analysis does not allow you to infer a cause and effect relationship. This is because a third variable, a(n) ______ variable, often accounts for the relationship between the two variables.
A) intervening
B) nuisance
C) confounding
D) dependent

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An intervening variable is a variable that comes between the independent and dependent variables in a causal chain, thus obscuring the direct causal relationship between them. Correlational analysis does not allow for the manipulation of variables, so it is impossible to determine causality without ruling out the role of intervening variables.

The Use of Correlational Analysis Does Not Allow You to Infer