Psychology A-Level
causation and third variables
What causation and third variables means in Psychology A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of causation and third variables
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain causation and third variables in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A relationship between two co-variables cannot prove causation, as the direction of effect is unknown and an untested third variable may be responsible.
Topics that use causation and third variables
- Handling data (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- bar chart
- calculating the Sign test
- central tendency
- choosing a statistical test
- co-variables
- condition by condition comparison
- Consistency of scores
- content analysis
Using causation and third variables in the exam
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