Which statement best describes a negative correlation?

• A. Both variables increase together.
• B. There is no relationship between the variables.
• C. As one variable increases, the other decreases.
• D. Both variables are in an uncorrelated state.

Answer: (C)

A negative correlation indicates an inverse relationship between two variables, meaning that when one variable increases, the other variable tends to decrease. This relationship is often illustrated in scatterplots where a downward slope is observed.

For example, consider the relationship between the amount of time spent studying and the amount of free time available; as study time increases, free time decreases, demonstrating a negative correlation. This characteristic of negative correlation helps researchers and psychologists understand the dynamics between different psychological constructs or behaviors.

The other options represent different types of relationships. The description that both variables increase together denotes a positive correlation. A scenario where there is no relationship accurately describes a situation of no correlation, while stating that both variables are in an uncorrelated state also reflects the absence of any measurable relationship.