---
title: "Correlational Studies — AP Psychology Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Correlational studies measure how two variables relate without manipulating either one. Learn why correlation never proves causation on the AP Psych exam."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/correlational-studies"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Psychology"
---

# Correlational Studies — AP Psychology Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Correlational studies measure two variables and examine how they relate to each other without manipulating either one of them.

## Related Study Guides

- [1.2 Research Methods in Psychology](/ap-psych-revised/unit-1/research-methods-psychology/study-guide/0cwRKu5WpZguow9JROzH)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Positive Correlation](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/positive-correlation): This occurs when both variables increase or decrease together, like height and weight in humans - as height increases, typically so does weight.
- [Negative Correlation](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/negative-correlation): This happens when one variable increases while the other decreases, like time spent watching TV and grades - as TV time goes up, grades often go down.
- [Correlation Coefficient](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/correlation-coefficient): A statistical measure that calculates the strength and direction of a correlation. It's like a scorecard telling how closely two things are related.