Introductory Psychology CLEP Prep Practice Exam

What type of research is best suited to the study of relationships between variables that are already expressed in terms of numbers?

1. Qualitative research

2. Experimental research

3. Correlational research

4. Surveys

The correct answer is: Correlational research

Correlational research is the best approach for studying relationships between variables that are already expressed in terms of numbers. This type of research focuses on analyzing the existing data and finding statistical relationships between different variables. Option A, qualitative research, would not be effective for this type of study because it focuses on understanding and interpreting non-numerical data, such as opinions and experiences. Similarly, option B, experimental research, involves manipulating variables and observing their effects. This would not be useful for studying relationships between already expressed numerical data. Option D, surveys, can be a useful method for collecting data, but it does not necessarily provide insight into the relationships between variables. Correlational research, on the other hand, allows researchers to analyze and interpret the data to determine how two or more variables are related. This is why it is the best approach for studying relationships between variables that are already