One reason why cause-and-effect relationships cannot be inferred from correlations is because
A) correlational relationships are usually temporary.
B) correlational relationships are always based on coincidence.
C) many other unidentified variables may be possible causes of a correlation.
D) the correlational method is not useful in determining relationships between variables.
E) All of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Correlations indicate a relationship between two variables, but they do not establish causation. This is because there could be other variables, not accounted for in the study, that are influencing the relationship. These are often referred to as confounding variables.

One Reason Why Cause-And-Effect Relationships Cannot Be Inferred from Correlations