Which statement reflects the presence of a correlation between two variables?

Which statement reflects the presence of a correlation between two variables?

• A. A variable influences another
• B. Variables are unrelated
• C. A relationship is identified
• D. A variable is assumed

Answer: (C)

The statement that reflects the presence of a correlation between two variables is that a relationship is identified. Correlation refers to a statistical measure that describes the extent to which two variables change together. If there is a correlation, it indicates that when one variable tends to increase or decrease, the other variable does the same, or the opposite. This relationship does not necessarily imply causation, meaning that one variable does not influence or cause changes in the other. Rather, it simply shows that a connection exists between them. For instance, if research finds that higher levels of physical activity are associated with lower levels of stress, it suggests a correlation between these two variables, but it does not confirm that one causes the other. In contrast, the other options either suggest no connection or imply a causative effect, which does not accurately describe correlation. Recognizing that correlation only establishes a relationship, rather than implying influence or causation, is fundamental in understanding data analysis in nursing research.

The statement that reflects the presence of a correlation between two variables is that a relationship is identified. Correlation refers to a statistical measure that describes the extent to which two variables change together. If there is a correlation, it indicates that when one variable tends to increase or decrease, the other variable does the same, or the opposite.

This relationship does not necessarily imply causation, meaning that one variable does not influence or cause changes in the other. Rather, it simply shows that a connection exists between them. For instance, if research finds that higher levels of physical activity are associated with lower levels of stress, it suggests a correlation between these two variables, but it does not confirm that one causes the other.

In contrast, the other options either suggest no connection or imply a causative effect, which does not accurately describe correlation. Recognizing that correlation only establishes a relationship, rather than implying influence or causation, is fundamental in understanding data analysis in nursing research.