Social psychologists use a variety of research methods to gather data and test hypotheses in the research setting.  Each method offers advantages and disadvantages, and it is important for the researcher to choose the most optimal method for what they are trying to test and accomplish.  It is necessary to become familiar with strengths and limitations of these methodologies, and to discuss implications of misinterpreting results or using incorrect methods to gather data.

• Read the article titled 10 Correlations that are not Causations by Nicholas Gerbis for examples of the correlation-causation fallacy in effect.

• Prepare to discuss the idea of correlation-causation confusion as it relates to social psychological research, and the implications this has on interpreting research results. Ensure the following points are addressed:

• • Describe the method of correlational research and how the results differ from measuring cause and effect.
  • Provide an example (other than the examples used in the reading material) of two variables that may be positively or negatively correlated, but do not imply a cause and effect relationship.
  • Explore implications of confusing correlation and causation as it relates to societal attitudes and viewpoints.