Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A causal relationship refers to a cause-and-effect connection between two or more variables, where changes in one variable directly influence changes in another variable.
Related terms
Correlation: Correlation refers to a statistical relationship between two variables without implying causation.
Effect: The effect is the outcome or result that occurs due to a specific cause.
Cause and Effect Essay: A type of essay that explores the reasons behind an event or phenomenon and its subsequent effects.