Short Answer

A researcher initially finds a positive correlation of r=+.35r = +.35 between watching violent television and aggressive behavior. After using partial correlation to statistically control for socioeconomic status (SES), the correlation becomes r=+.20r = +.20. Apply the principles of partial correlation to interpret this specific result.

Question: A researcher initially finds a positive correlation of r=+.35r = +.35 between watching violent television and aggressive behavior. After using partial correlation to statistically control for socioeconomic status (SES), the correlation becomes r=+.20r = +.20. Apply the principles of partial correlation to interpret this specific result.

Sample answer: A reduction in correlation from r=+.35r = +.35 to r=+.20r = +.20 indicates that socioeconomic status (SES) accounts for some, but not all, of the relationship between watching violent television and aggressive behavior. The remaining correlation of r=+.20r = +.20 suggests that a portion of the relationship is independent of SES.

Key points:

  • SES accounts for some, but not all, of the relationship between television violence and aggression.
  • The remaining correlation of r=+.20r = +.20 shows that some portion of the relationship is independent of SES.

Rubric: The answer must state that SES accounts for some, but not all, of the relationship, and explain that the remaining correlation of r=+.20r = +.20 is independent of SES.

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Updated 2026-05-27

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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU

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