What characterizes a negative correlation?

A negative correlation is characterized by an inverse relationship between two variables, meaning that as one variable increases, the other decreases. This type of relationship suggests that the two variables move in opposite directions relative to each other. For example, in a scenario where you might examine the relationship between stress levels and performance, it could be observed that as stress levels rise, performance may decline. Thus, this negative correlation highlights the tendency of one variable to decrease in response to an increase in another, accurately matching the definition of a negative correlation.

Understanding this concept is essential for interpreting data correctly in research, particularly in psychology, where many variables may influence each other in opposing ways.