Interpreting Correlational Findings
Name: ________________________
Assignment: Interpreting Correlational Findings
Following are brief summaries of correlational findings, in which variables were found to be significantly associated with each other.
Your task is to determine which of the three major causal models (i.e., interpretations) could account for each finding. Indicate in the table below, by placing an X in the appropriate space, which of these three models could provide a possible explanation. Place an X in the space only if you judge the causal model to be possible & reasonably plausible. If you decide that the third model is possible, generate two possibilities for what variable “C” could represent, and type a short summary (3-5 words should be sufficient) of these variables in the spaces provided.
Keep in mind that more than one causal model may be possible for each finding. Your task is not to decide which model or models provide the true or even the best interpretation, but rather which provide possible—and reasonable—interpretations that could be tested by further investigation.
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1. It has been found that having a pet in childhood predicts the likelihood of becoming a CEO: Over 90% of Fortune 500 CEOs had had a pet as a child, compared to only 53% of non-CEOs. Some of the CEOs stated how having a pet helped them develop a sense of responsibility and empathy. The Pets are Wonderful Council suggested that buying a pet for your child is a good way to get him or her started on the road to leadership success.
Causal interpretation
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A
Variables correlated (A & B) AB B A
Assignment: Interpreting Correlational Findings
Following are brief summaries of correlational findings, in which variables were found to be significantly associated with each other.
Your task is to determine which of the three major causal models (i.e., interpretations) could account for each finding. Indicate in the table below, by placing an X in the appropriate space, which of these three models could provide a possible explanation. Place an X in the space only if you judge the causal model to be possible & reasonably plausible. If you decide that the third model is possible, generate two possibilities for what variable “C” could represent, and type a short summary (3-5 words should be sufficient) of these variables in the spaces provided.
Keep in mind that more than one causal model may be possible for each finding. Your task is not to decide which model or models provide the true or even the best interpretation, but rather which provide possible—and reasonable—interpretations that could be tested by further investigation.
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1. It has been found that having a pet in childhood predicts the likelihood of becoming a CEO: Over 90% of Fortune 500 CEOs had had a pet as a child, compared to only 53% of non-CEOs. Some of the CEOs stated how having a pet helped them develop a sense of responsibility and empathy. The Pets are Wonderful Council suggested that buying a pet for your child is a good way to get him or her started on the road to leadership success.
Causal interpretation
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A
Variables correlated (A & B) AB B A